Description

W-shaped burrows are characterized by three surface openings connected by two to three tunnels of varying orientation (90-0 degrees). Typically two U-shaped tunnels merge together to share a single surface opening at one end and each has an additional surface opening at the other end, although other architectures are possible. The tunnels have an elliptical to circular cross section and may be straight to sinuous. W-shaped burrows are generally formed by the linking of two different U-shaped burrows. When further modified by the addition of new shafts and tunnels, W-shaped burrows can become mazeworks. W-shaped burrows are used as temporary shelters to permanent dwellings.

 

Organisms that produce W-shaped burrows

 

Eastern Tiger Salamander	Giant African Millipede