Burrowing Behaviour

The northern hairy-nosed wombat exhibits some fairly unusual burrowing behaviour! They construct complex systems of burrows and tunnels that are occupied by 4-5 wombats. Burrows have an average of 2-3 entrances, however they may have up to 7!

Individual wombats often share clusters of burrows, however they generally avoid encounters with other wombats and spend about 70% of their time alone. They only come out of the burrow at night to search for food and occasionally to bask in the sun on winter afternoons.

Burrows in use are carefully maintained and are regularly 'sign-posted' with dung and urine. The burrows are usually located close to trees whose roots may provide support in the soft, sandy soil. Trees may also help to provide shade.

Some research suggests:

• That the large wombat burrow warrens are the work of many generations of wombats;
• That occupying burrows is of the most benefit to wombats during the hottest, driest weather.

Why do wombats live in burrows?

Living in burrows has many advantages, including:

• Temperature stability: Burrows help to avoid the temperature fluctuations that occur on the surface, helping to keep wombats cool in summer and warm in winter;
• Water savings: Water is often in very limited supply for wombats. The long tunnels of burrows have high levels of humidity, this allows wombats significant water savings.
• In summary, wombats live underground to avoid the harsh environment on the surface.