A new study finds gophers graze on roots that grow into their tunnels—which could be the first example of nonhuman mammals doing a kind of farming.
Months before making a ground-breaking pocket gopher discovery, Veronica Selden arrived at a grassy pasture in Gainesville, Florida, with two shovels, three oil barrels, and a question: Why were these small animals building such big tunnels? The answer, according to a new study, is that the gophers graze on roots that grow into their tunnels, in what Selden and others say could be the first example of nonhuman mammals doing a kind of farming.
Pocket gophers—brown rodents about the size and shape of a guinea pig—eat mostly roots, stems, and some aboveground weeds and grasses. They spend most of their lives alone in underground tunnel networks longer than a U.S. football field, going aboveground only occasionally to forage and mate. The animals spend a lot of energy digging out those long tunnels—an activity that also makes them vulnerable to predators.
Österreich Neuesten Nachrichten, Österreich Schlagzeilen
Similar News:Sie können auch ähnliche Nachrichten wie diese lesen, die wir aus anderen Nachrichtenquellen gesammelt haben.
Scientists find microplastics in meat, milk, and blood of farm animalsThe study found that nearly 80% of meat and dairy products tested by scientists contain microplastics.
Weiterlesen »
I-TEAM: Celestial Farms’ dispute leaves parents concerned, confused after Farm School Day abruptly squashedParents who paid for their children to attend Farm School Day at Celestial Farms were turned away from a locked gate at the property on Wednesday amid an ongoing dispute between new and old management over finances.
Weiterlesen »
Down on the Farm for Down With the KingA farmer (Bob Tarasuk) and a rapper (FreddieGibbs) go to work in Down With the King.
Weiterlesen »
Research Suggests Gophers Are One of the First Mammalian FarmersBreaking: A study shows that some gophers “farm” in their tunnels, making them one of the first agriculturalists among mammals. Read more about it by clicking the link below. Farmers Mammals Gophers
Weiterlesen »
Is Expired Food Safe to Eat?Are you throwing out food that is perfectly safe to eat just because it's past its 'Best If Used By' date?
Weiterlesen »