Living Underground: The Secret Lives of Burrowing Animals
Australia's Burrowing Bonanza
In the vast and diverse landscape of Australia, an astonishingly large number of mammals have taken to the underground world, creating intricate networks of burrows that provide shelter and refuge from the harsh environment. Approximately 22 out of 300 non-flying land-dwelling mammals in Australia utilize burrows for protection and shelter, making this continent a veritable burrow-building paradise.
The Boodie: A Master of Burrow Design
Among these subterranean architects, the boodie (Bettongia lesueur) stands out as a true master of its craft. This small, nocturnal marsupial, also known as the burrowing bettong or Lesueur's rat-kangaroo, is renowned for its intricate burrows, which can reach lengths of up to 20 meters and depths of over 2 meters. These elaborate tunnels feature multiple entrances and escape routes, allowing the boodie to evade predators and seek shelter from the elements.
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