. . and about 10 years ago, so I don't remember the source of the stomach lining experiment. It does make sense since though, since chili hotness is a nerve receptor thing and not a damage thing. Since birds don't have the receptors they eat the hottest chilis with relish and no bad effects.

The upside is you can treat your bird feed with chili (there are commercial products for this) and you will have happy birds and very distressed squirrels.