Mammals of the Table Rocks

Valley Pocket Gopher

Valley Pocket Gopher Thomomys bottae © Lee Dittmann

I spend most of my time in underground burrows and can live in many different habitats as long as the soil is good for digging. I dig extensive tunnel systems. I use different tunnels for storing food or refuse. I can move up to two tons of soil per year.

I like to eat roots and bulbs of plants. I can stuff food into my external, fur-lined "pockets" in my cheeks.

I like to live alone and often fight other gophers if they come near.

I usually breed once a year in the spring, having six babies.

Living underground protects me from predators like coyotes, red-tailed hawks or bobcats.

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