POCKET GOPHERS 



1323 



The pocket gopher is an inhabitant of the extensive plains of the valley of the 

 Mississippi and its tributaries, extending somewhat beyond these limits to the north- 

 ward. Here it lives a mole-like life, constructing subterranean tunnels and throw- 

 ing up at intervals conical heaps of earth, after the fashion of the " little gentleman 

 in black velvet. ' ' The tunnels generally run at a distance of about a foot below the 

 surface; but sometimes, as when passing beneath a garden path, they descend 

 deeper. They are driven for the purpose of obtaining access to the roots of plants 

 on which these animals chiefly subsist. The tunnels generally communicate with 

 one another by cross passages; and in a certain spot generally beneath the roots 



THE COMMON POCKET GOPHER. 

 (One-half natural size. ) 



of some large tree the animal sinks a deep shaft, at the termination of which is 

 constructed a dwelling chamber. This chamber is generally as much as from four 

 to five feet below the surface, and is entered by a tortuous passage. It is of large 

 size, and generally lined with soft grass, upon which the owner reposes. The nest 

 of the female is constructed in a similar chamber, which is, however, encircled by a 

 horizontal gallery, after the manner of the residential chamber of the mole. Here 

 in the latter part of March or beginning of April are produced from five to seven 

 young; their nest consisting partly of soft fur from the body of the mother. Gen- 

 erally a passage proceeds from one side of the nest chamber to a store chamber, 

 which is filled with roots, nuts, and seeds in cultivated districts potatoes 



