omnivores

An omnivore is an organism that regularly consumes both animal and plant matter. This dietary strategy is broader than herbivory or carnivory, and omnivory is observed across many taxonomic groups. Some species are facultative omnivores, feeding on a range of foods when preferred options are scarce, while others are considered obligate omnivores, relying on a mixed diet as a primary strategy.

Omnivory is common in mammals, birds, and some invertebrates. Examples include humans, bears, pigs, raccoons, and many corvids such as crows and magpies. The relative proportion of plant and animal items varies with species, season, habitat, and food availability. Some omnivores specialize in particular plant foods or animal prey, while others consume a broad spectrum of options.

Anatomically, omnivores tend to have generalized dentition and digestive systems capable of processing a range of nutrients, including carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. They may possess a combination of sharp teeth for meat and flat molars for plants, as well as digestive enzymes and gut microbiota suited to diverse diets. In some species, dietary emphasis shifts with life stages or seasons.

Ecologically, omnivores can exploit a wide array of resources, contributing to flexible foraging strategies and resilience in fluctuating environments. This versatility can influence food webs and nutrient cycling, but it may come with trade-offs, such as reduced specialization and efficiency in exploiting a single resource.

In humans, omnivory supports varied cuisines and nutrition, yet dietary balance remains important for micronutrients, fiber, and contaminants. Cultural and dietary choices shape individual patterns within the broad omnivorous framework.