What Animals Dwell in the Small Holes of the Sonoran Desert?
Have you ever noticed the small holes in the desert floor? You may have guessed that the holes belong to snakes. While a snake may be hiding in the small burrow, a snake most likely did not make it. Most snakes are unable to dig, so they sit in these burrows made by other animals to hide from the scorching desert heat and lurking predators.
These creatures dig small, snake-sized holes to escape the Arizona heat–and predators:
- Round-tailed squirrels
- Harris’ antelope squirrels
- Pocket mice
- Lizards
- Tarantulas
round-tailed ground squirrels
Round-tailed ground squirrels usually find places next to shrubs to dig into the ground. They dig an entrance to their home that is between 1½” and 2½” wide. This entrance leads to an expansive burrow that is 3 feet deep.
The squirrels’ burrow will be home to a dozen or more round-tailed ground squirrel families.
The burrows consist of a main tunnel with multiple entrances and exits, which serve as escape routes in case of danger. When you see a few close holes in the desert ground, they may all be connected to a big squirrel home underneath your feet!
Round-tailed ground squirrels dig their burrows using their sharp claws and powerful front limbs. Despite being called “round-tailed” squirrels, their tails are not perfectly round but are slightly flattened. This helps them move and maneuver through the narrow tunnels of their burrows.
Harris’s Antelope Squirrels
Harris’s antelope squirrels dig burrows similar to the round-tailed squirrels. A Harris’s antelope squirrel doesn’t only dig around bushes, they will also dig holes near cacti and rocks.
These squirrels are more solitary than round-tailed ground squirrels. Their burrows will be just as deep, but smaller in size. You will see fewer entry holes connected to their private underground dwellings.
pocket mice
Pocket mice tend to dig burrows near bushes and grass clumps. They make a hole between 1” and 1½” wide. The entrance to their burrow is sloped, so they can easily scurry into their home and fill it with a grass nest.
Their burrows typically consist of multiple entrances and various chambers for different purposes. Some chambers are used for nesting, while others are designated for food storage or as a latrine.
lizards
Lizards will usually use burrows created by other animals or find a small cavity to hide in during the day. However, at times lizards will dig their own holes. Species of lizards that occasionally dig their own holes include the Desert Spiny Lizard and the Collared Lizard. A burrow made by a lizard is shallow. It is typically domed on top and has a flat bottom.
Tarantulas
Tarantulas make the holes in the ground that you see in the middle of trails or wide open spaces. The hole they make is between 1” and 1½” wide. They dig a hole straight down several inches with a small J-shaped turn at the bottom.
Tarantulas fill the vertical hole with webbing. The webbing vibrates when activity happens on the surface. This helps the tarantula stay alert and aware of anything happening above ground. The webbing also helps the tarantula’s home retain humidity.
Throughout the majority of the year, tarantulas are nocturnal and remain near their burrows. However, when it’s mating season, male tarantulas venture out from their burrows in search of females who are ready to mate. Tarantulas are willing to travel long distances in order to find a suitable mate, making this the prime time for potential encounters with these creatures. In Arizona, there are 30 different species of tarantulas that you have a chance of seeing!
Respecting the Burrows of Desert Wildlife
When exploring the Arizona desert, it’s important to respect the natural habitats of these creatures and avoid disturbing their burrows. Respecting desert burrows and the ecosystems they are a part of is crucial for maintaining the delicate balance of these environments and ensuring the well-being of the species that depend on them.
Here are some important guidelines for respecting desert burrows in Arizona or any other similar ecosystem:
- Stay on Designated Trails: When exploring desert areas, stick to established trails and paths to minimize your impact on the habitat. Avoid trampling on vegetation or disturbing potential burrow sites.
- Avoid Disturbing Burrows: If you encounter a burrow, do not disturb it. Refrain from poking sticks or objects into burrows, as this can harm the inhabitants or damage the structure.
- Observe from a Distance: While it might be tempting to get a closer look at burrowing animals, it’s best to observe them from a distance using binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens. Getting too close can cause stress to the animals.
- Educate Yourself: Learn about the species that use burrows in the area you’re visiting. Knowing their habits and needs can help you avoid unintentional disturbances.
- Follow Regulations: Follow any posted guidelines or regulations set by the park or protected area you’re visiting. These rules are designed to protect the environment and its inhabitants.
- Share Knowledge: Educate others about the importance of respecting desert burrows and the role they play in the ecosystem. Encourage responsible behavior among fellow visitors.
- Support Conservation: Support local conservation organizations and initiatives that work to protect desert habitats and the species that call them home. Consider supporting Boyce Thompson Arboretum’s mission to inspire appreciation and stewardship of desert plants, wildlife, and ecosystems through education, research and conservation.
Remember that the desert ecosystem is fragile, and even small disturbances can have far-reaching consequences. By following these guidelines and practicing responsible outdoor ethics, you can help preserve these unique environments for future generations to enjoy.
