What animals eat fireweed?

Fireweed is a delicious and nutritious plant for many animals! Here are some of the critters that enjoy a munch on fireweed:

Insects:

* Bees: Fireweed is a major nectar source for bees, providing them with pollen and nectar.

* Butterflies: Fireweed is a popular host plant for caterpillars of several butterfly species, including the Painted Lady and Mourning Cloak.

* Other Insects: Various other insects also feed on fireweed, including aphids, grasshoppers, and beetles.

Birds:

* Goldfinches: Fireweed seeds are a favorite food of goldfinches, especially during the fall and winter.

* Other Birds: Some other birds, like chickadees, sparrows, and juncos, also eat fireweed seeds.

Mammals:

* Deer: Fireweed is a good forage for deer, particularly in the early stages of growth.

* Rabbits: Rabbits also enjoy eating fireweed leaves and stems.

* Elk: Elk will eat fireweed, especially in areas where other food is scarce.

Other Wildlife:

* Moths: Fireweed is a food source for some moth larvae.

Fireweed's ability to attract a wide variety of animals makes it an important part of the ecosystem, contributing to pollination, seed dispersal, and providing food for many creatures.