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Squirrels will eat Brussels sprouts, and yes, they actually seem to enjoy them.
If you’ve been wondering whether squirrels will eat Brussels sprouts in your garden, the short answer is a resounding yes.
These bushy-tailed visitors aren’t picky, and Brussels sprouts happen to be one of those vegetables they’ll happily nibble on.
In this post, we’ll look at why squirrels eat Brussels sprouts, how to tell they’ve been snacking, and what you can do to protect your crop.
Let’s dig in.
Why Squirrels Will Eat Brussels Sprouts
Squirrels will eat Brussels sprouts for several reasons, and understanding those reasons is the first step to dealing with them.
1. Squirrels Are Opportunistic Foragers
Squirrels will eat Brussels sprouts because they’re opportunistic feeders that rarely turn down an easy meal.
In the wild, they munch on nuts, seeds, buds, and shoots.
When your vegetable garden offers a fresh, leafy crop, squirrels see it as just another food source.
That’s why squirrels eat Brussels sprouts without hesitation when the opportunity presents itself.
2. Brussels Sprouts Are Mild and Tasty
Unlike bitter or spicy plants that repel animals, Brussels sprouts have a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
That makes them appealing to squirrels looking for something fresh to chew on.
Squirrels will eat Brussels sprouts because they’re tender and easy to nibble, especially the young, leafy tops.
3. Squirrels Need Variety in Their Diet
Squirrels eat Brussels sprouts because they’re constantly foraging for a varied diet.
While nuts and seeds make up much of their intake, fresh greens provide moisture and nutrients they don’t always get elsewhere.
So when they stumble on a patch of Brussels sprouts, they’ll take advantage.
4. The Garden Is an Easy Target
Squirrels will eat Brussels sprouts simply because home gardens are convenient.
Your carefully planted rows are basically a buffet, and squirrels are smart enough to return once they’ve found a good spot.
Once they know the location, they’ll keep coming back for more.
How to Tell if Squirrels Ate Your Brussels Sprouts
If you suspect squirrels have been eating Brussels sprouts, there are a few telltale signs to look for.
1. Chewed Leaves and Stalks
Squirrels will eat Brussels sprouts by nibbling the outer leaves and gnawing on the stalks.
You’ll often find ragged, torn edges rather than the neat cuts made by insects.
Small tooth marks on the sprouts themselves are another giveaway.
2. Missing Sprouts on the Stalk
When squirrels eat Brussels sprouts, they pluck the little heads right off the stalk.
If your plants suddenly look bare in spots, squirrels are a likely culprit.
3. Droppings and Dig Marks
Squirrels leave behind small droppings and disturbed soil around the base of the plants.
You might also notice shallow digging where they’ve buried nuts nearby.
How to Keep Squirrels From Eating Brussels Sprouts
So how do you stop squirrels from eating Brussels sprouts before you get to harvest them?
Here are a few practical strategies that work.
1. Use Physical Barriers
The most reliable way to keep squirrels from eating Brussels sprouts is to block their access.
Garden netting or row covers draped over your plants will keep squirrels out.
Just make sure the barriers are secure, because squirrels are clever climbers.
2. Plant Them Away From Trees
Squirrels will eat Brussels sprouts more often when the garden sits near trees or fences they can launch from.
Positioning your crop in a more open area reduces the chance of squirrels dropping in.
3. Scare Tactics and Repellents
Motion-activated sprinklers, reflective tape, and sprinkle-on repellents can discourage squirrels from eating Brussels sprouts.
Rotate your methods, though, because squirrels quickly get used to the same tricks.
4. Harvest Early
If squirrels will eat Brussels sprouts no matter what, picking them a bit earlier can help.
Brussels sprouts are often ready before squirrels do their worst damage.
Getting to them first means you keep more of your harvest.
So, Will Squirrels Eat Brussels Sprouts?
Squirrels will eat Brussels sprouts, and they’ll do it happily if given the chance.
They eat Brussels sprouts because the crop is mild, tender, and easy to reach.
The good news is you can protect your plants with netting, smart placement, and a little vigilance.
Hope this post has helped you understand why squirrels will eat Brussels sprouts and how to keep your vegetable patch safe from their snacking.