What is one way the Eastern Gray Squirrel damages ornamentals?

Chewing bark is a significant way the Eastern Gray Squirrel can cause damage to ornamental plants. When squirrels chew on the bark, they not only remove protective layers but can also create openings that allow for disease pathogens to enter the plant. The damage to the bark can disrupt the flow of nutrients and water within the tree or shrub, potentially leading to decline or even death of the plant over time. Squirrels often target the bark of younger, more vulnerable trees, which makes them particularly susceptible to this form of damage. This behavior is primarily driven by the need to access the cambium layer, which is nutritious and can help in dental health as they need to keep their teeth worn down.

While other options also reflect behaviors associated with squirrels, they do not specifically highlight the type of damage that is most commonly impactful to ornamental plants. For instance, stripping leaves can occur but is generally less harmful compared to bark damage. Eating seeds is a natural forage behavior that affects the plant's reproduction rather than its health. Fertilizing the soil is not a damaging behavior and does not apply in the context of damage assessment. Therefore, chewing bark stands out as a key factor in the detrimental impact Eastern Gray Squirrels can have on ornamental plants.