The use of a naturally patchy distribution of tree seeds by gray squirrels was investigated. In most patches the acorn species allowing the highest rate of energy intake was consumed disproportionately in relation to its low abundance. Foraging was particularly intense in patches where an acorn species offering a lower rate of energy intake was abundant. Calculations made with a model of optimal foraging show that these heavily used patches were those yielding high patch—specific rates of energy intake. The squirrels selected patches yielding high rates of energy intake even though these patches were not sites of concentration of the preferred food.

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