Summer activity of northern pocket gophers, Thomomys talpoides, in a simulated natural environment

Abstract

The behaviour of the gophers varied greatly from one animal to another. On average, gophers spent 53% of their time sleeping. They spent more time excavating than any other active behaviour. Burrow systems had a zigzagging or looping pattern, an average length of 408 (±28)cm, and at least one nest chamber, usually >90cm below surface. Pocket gopher activity occurred throughout the 24-h day and there was no difference between the sum of activity periods recorded during different times of the day. Gophers spent an average of 2.7h on surface for food-related activities. -from Authors