Red maple trees

Question

Looks like something has eaten the bark off the limbs in several places. What might be the problem? Do squirrels eat bark? Is it a disease?

Answer 1

I don't think squirrels eat bark, but they might peel some off the tree if there were something tasty t eat underneath. This article has some insights into peeling bark: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/tgen/peeling-bark-on-trees.htm
Since this could be potentially a serious problem, you could take some bark samples to the Extension Service for analysis and recommendation. This link will help you locate one: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/extension-search/