Vertebrates Inhabiting Pocket Gopher Burrows in Colorado

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Abstract
Twenty-two species of vertebrates have been recorded in Colorado as using pocket gopher burrows for retreats and foraging routes, and the local occurrence of several reptiles and of the tiger salamander is determined by the presence of these burrows. Adult tiger salamanders often live in burrows occupied by pocket gophers; apparently these two animals are mutually tolerant. Ground squirrels are pocket gophers' strongest competitors for burrow systems and occasionally force pocket gophers from their burrows. The plugging by pocket gophers of open entrances to their burrows is important in excluding other burrowinhabiting vetebrates as well as predators.

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