Intraspecific cache pilferage by larder-hoarding red squirrels (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus)

Pilfering of cached food by red squirrels (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) occurs at significantly lower rates in Kluane, Yukon, Canada, compared to other regions. A study found that only 14% of individuals pilfered, with stolen cones representing just 0.3% of total larder-hoarded food—a rate far below those reported for scatter-hoarding species or red squirrels elsewhere. The research, conducted across two populations—one with artificial food supplementation and higher density—revealed that younger squirrels with smaller caches were more likely to pilfer when given the opportunity. Using experimental territory removals and mark-recapture studies of spruce cones under natural conditions, the study also highlighted how factors like age, cache size, and population density influence pilfering behavior in highly territorial larder-hoarding species.

Donald, J. L., & Boutin, S. (2011). Intraspecific cache pilferage by larder-hoarding red squirrels (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus). Journal of Mammalogy, 92(5), 1013–1020. https://doi.org/10.1644/10-mamm-a-340.1