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Will research link squirrels' carnivorous behavior to climate change by end of 2025?
4
Resolution / Starting Odds
Yes • 50%
No • 50%
Scientific studies or reports from reputable institutions
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California Ground Squirrels Documented Hunting and Eating Voles for First Time in Briones Park, Over 70 Observed
Dec 19, 2024, 01:43 AM
Recent research from the University of California, Davis, has revealed that California ground squirrels are exhibiting carnivorous behavior by hunting, killing, and consuming voles, a behavior previously undocumented in this species. This discovery comes as scientists observed over 70 squirrels engaging in predation during June and July 2024 in Briones Regional Park, California. The findings challenge long-held beliefs that these squirrels primarily forage for seeds and grains, with researchers noting that the squirrels may be adapting their diet in response to fluctuations in prey availability. The study, published in the Journal of Ethology, indicates that this behavior represents a significant shift in understanding the dietary habits of ground squirrels, which were once thought to be strictly herbivorous. Researchers expressed surprise at the findings, stating, 'This was shocking. We had never seen this behavior before.'
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Climate Change • 25%
Other Environmental Factors • 25%
Food Scarcity • 25%
Increase in Vole Population • 25%
Other Prey • 25%
Voles • 25%
Seeds and Vegetation • 25%
Mixed Diet • 25%
No Significant Difference • 25%
Northern California • 25%
Central California • 25%
Southern California • 25%
Other • 25%
Predominantly vegetarian • 25%
Balanced vegetarian and meat • 25%
Predominantly meat • 25%
Gene affecting fur color in dogs • 25%
Gene affecting fur color in rabbits • 25%
Gene affecting skin color in reptiles • 25%
No related discoveries • 25%
Carnivorous • 25%
Herbivorous • 25%
Other/Indeterminate • 25%
Omnivorous • 25%
Other • 25%
Diverse plant-based diet • 25%
Increased meat consumption • 25%
Insect consumption • 25%