Concept in Definition ABC

Animals such as the rabbit, the marmot, the beaver or the mole make their own shelters to inhabit them temporarily. These dens are known as burrows. His building It has several reasons: it allows the litters to rest and raise, it is a refuge against possible threats from predators and it helps to protect themselves from the heat of the sun, the cold and the wind. Consequently, it is a home insurance.

There is no single model of burrow, as some are made up of a simple tube-shaped hole and built underground, while others make up a complex system of tunnels.

The polar bears

When the winter in the Arctic these animals dig a deep burrow in the snow. Cubs are born inside it.

For three months the mother feeds them and when the spring the cubs can now come out of it, as they have been properly fed. However, the mother is hungry and needs to hunt other animals to regain strength after a long period of fasting hiding in her shelter.

The burrow of the mole and the platypus

The mole is a mammal that digs its burrow underground with a complex system of galleries and chambers. Much of its activity is carried out inside, since it eats, rests and breeds. The worms that inhabit the interior of the earth are the main food of these animals. On the surface of the burrow, the mole builds a protective fortress out of mounds of fresh soil. The mother mole comes out of her burrow at night in order to protect the top layer of her den with dirt.

The platypus builds its burrow under the roots of the trees and there it forms a small maze of tunnels. After having eaten he hides in his shelter to regain strength in a safe place.

When the female is pregnant she blocks the entrance to the burrow to prevent threat from predators and for their future offspring to be born in a place warm. At the bottom of his lair he builds a nest covered with dry grass where he lays his eggs. The platypus burrow has two cavities, one for resting and the other for reproduction.

In the human context

While the word burrow is used in relation to the animal world, it is also used in the context of humans. Thus, the place where criminals take refuge is known as a burrow.

Of course, if a criminal is looking for a safe place so that they will not find him, he will choose a hidden and secluded place. Like some animals, criminals need a shelter to rest and feed.

Photo: Fotolia - Sorokina