What eats pickleweed?

Pickleweed, also known as *Salicornia* or *sea asparagus*, is a salt-tolerant plant that grows in coastal areas. While it may be a tasty treat for humans (when prepared properly), it's also a food source for various animals:

Herbivores:

* Shorebirds: Many shorebirds, such as the American avocet, black-necked stilt, and sanderling, rely on pickleweed for food.

* Rabbits: These small mammals are known to nibble on pickleweed, especially when other food sources are scarce.

* Deer: In areas where pickleweed is abundant, deer may also forage on it.

Insects:

* Grasshoppers: Some grasshopper species can be found feeding on pickleweed.

* Aphids: These tiny insects can sometimes be seen sucking sap from pickleweed.

Other:

* Snails: Some snail species may graze on pickleweed.

It's important to note that while these animals may eat pickleweed, it is not the primary food source for most of them.