I dont recall having such an experience-- but i can see that happening.

I tried growing eggplant last year and had a couple growing--little 4 inch---waiting and waiting.....the chickens were pecking it clean from the otherside and emptied the flesh leaving the skin!!!!!

Have about 10 plants this year-- good that I know each variety to pick it when it is small for that variety. A few small finger size, a medium size and a big black beauty.

I am concerned the little ones will have mature seeds when the fruit is small---will see!!