Many animals spend a significant part of their lives underground, finding shelter, food, and safety in the soil.
From insects to mammals, these creatures have adapted to life beneath the earth’s surface. Let’s dive into the world of 10 animals that call the underground their home.
- Moles
Moles are perhaps the most well-known underground animals. These small mammals spend most of their time digging elaborate tunnels in search of insects and worms to eat. Their large, powerful front paws are perfect for digging, and their eyes are tiny because they don’t need them in the dark tunnels. Moles create extensive tunnel systems, and they rarely come to the surface except to find new areas to dig. - Earthworms
Earthworms are essential for healthy soil, and they live almost entirely underground. These creatures tunnel through the soil, breaking down organic matter and enriching the earth with nutrients. Earthworms can be found in gardens, forests, and fields, constantly burrowing through the ground to find food and avoid predators. - Gophers
Gophers are small rodents that live underground, creating extensive tunnel systems with multiple chambers. They feed on plants and roots, using their strong claws to dig. Gophers are known for their ability to create large mounds of soil that appear on the surface as they push dirt out of their tunnels. - Prairie Dogs
Prairie dogs are social rodents that live in large colonies called “towns.” They dig complex burrow systems to protect themselves from predators and harsh weather. These underground homes have different chambers for sleeping, storing food, and even taking care of babies. Prairie dogs are highly social and communicate with each other using a variety of vocalizations. - Ground Squirrels
Ground squirrels spend most of their time underground in burrows, especially during the colder months when they hibernate. These squirrels create tunnels to escape predators and to find food. They store nuts and seeds underground for later consumption, especially during winter. Ground squirrels are known for being quick and alert to any danger around them. - Ants
Ants are some of the most industrious underground creatures. They live in colonies, digging complex tunnels and chambers where they store food, raise their young, and protect their queen. Some species, like the leafcutter ant, dig incredibly deep tunnels and create large underground nests. Ants are social insects, with each colony having a strict hierarchy. - Fossorial Snakes
Fossorial snakes, like the eastern hognose or the sand boa, spend most of their lives underground, where they hunt for prey and find shelter. These snakes are adapted for burrowing, with smooth, cylindrical bodies that allow them to glide through the soil. They often live in burrows created by other animals or dig their own. - Wombats
Wombats are marsupials native to Australia that spend a lot of time underground in burrows. They dig their homes using their strong claws and spend much of their time in the cool, dark tunnels to escape the harsh Australian sun. Wombat burrows can be quite large, and they often share their underground homes with other wombats. - Burrowing Owls
Burrowing owls are unique because they live in tunnels dug by other animals, such as prairie dogs or foxes. These owls are small and use the burrows to stay safe from predators and raise their young. Unlike other owls, burrowing owls are often active during the day, which makes them an interesting species to observe. - Naked Mole Rats
Naked mole rats are fascinating creatures that live in large colonies underground. They live in complex tunnel systems with separate chambers for different purposes, such as nesting, eating, and waste disposal. Naked mole rats are social creatures, with a strict hierarchy led by a single queen. Their underground homes help them stay safe from predators and survive in harsh environments.
Life underground is fascinating, and these 10 animals are just a few examples of creatures that have adapted to living beneath the surface. Whether they’re digging tunnels for food, safety, or shelter, these animals have unique abilities that allow them to thrive in a hidden world that many of us rarely see.