Squirrel Damage to Pine Cones: Not a Tree Health Issue

One of three pines drops brown, shredded cones and brown needles. Owner wants squirrel deterrent.

Cone Damage

• Squirrels gnaw cones for seeds, drop debris
• No harm to tree—cones already mature

Needle Drop

• Brown needles = normal annual shed (older age class)
• Green needles remain on branches
• Not related to squirrels

Squirrel Management

Overpopulation issue. Consult wildlife damage expert: Steven V. Matthews

Tree health unaffected. Focus on population management if damage excessive.