Squirrel herbivory

We think about Eastern gray squirrels eating nuts, mushrooms, and berries.  But I wouldn't put them on the top of my 'eating greens' list.

But, first the collard transplants disappeared, then the broccoli, and then the red cabbage.  Hmmrph....  I was thinking an errant woodchuck might be selectively browsing, but s/he skipped the cilantro in one of my containers (a woodchuck favorite), so I was puzzled.

A greens-loving squirrel

At home for lunch, I caught the culprit in action.  First, s/he investigated the (sorry) remnants of the collards and broccoli, and then started investigating the adjoining mustard bed.  And, s/he started chewing.  Hmmrph.  My Mr. McGregor instincts had me snapping a quick couple of shots, before I ran out to show him/her away!

A chewed tomato: squirrel or woodchuck?

Hmm, I harvested a half-eaten red tomato this morning that had been chewed, but noticed evidence on this one (a green tomato) this afternoon.

There are distinct chew marks visible (diagnostic of a squirrel?);  I've never had squirrels eat my tomatoes, but I know through fellow garden bloggers that they do eat them.  I've never had woodchucks bother my tomatoes or anything else in the tomato (Solanaceae) family, but you never know.

My gardening companion spotted a very young woodchuck nibbling on Impatiens flowers (near my lower raised beds) this afternoon.  Hmmm.  I do hope s/he doesn't develop a taste for squash (or tomatoes)!