EVERYDAY SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -Short, sloping lateral tunnels connect the main burrow system to the surface; gophers create these while pushing dirt to the surface to construct the main tunnel. Gophers don’t hibernate and are active year-round, even though you might not see any fresh mounding.

Detailed explanation-2: -These holes allow for the gopher to feed without being any further than a body’s length from the entrance – limiting the time on the surface and decreasing the chance of becoming prey. The quality of the soil and the depth of the tunnels are important to the survival of this mammal.

Detailed explanation-3: -A gopher burrow consists of a main tunnel, usually between 4 and 18 inches below the ground, with many lateral tunnels connected to it. Occasionally some parts of the main tunnel will be 5 or 6 feet deep. The tunnels are usually about 3 inches across.

Detailed explanation-4: -A gopher’s burrow system consists of a main tunnel that is 4–18 inches below the surface with connecting lateral burrows. Lateral burrows end with soil plugs (mounds) on the surface. These plugs are typically 10–20 inches in diameter and can be seen more during spring and fall when gophers are most active.