Use and distribution of biogenic structures built by Chaetophractus villosus (Mammalia, Xenarthra) in the eastern argentinean pampas

ABBA, A.M.; UDRIZAR SAUTHIER, D. E.; VIZCAÍNO, S.F.

ACTA THERIOLOGICA

POLISH ACAD SCIENCES

Año: 2005 vol. 50 p. 115 - 124

0001-7051

Burrows and tunnels built by Chaetophractus villosus (Desmarest, 1804) (hairy armadillo) were studied in a farming area located in the Argentinean pampas, Buenos Aires Province, Argentina. Fifty-six structures were selected and carefully excavated for this study. Data on diameter, form, and orientation of the entrance, angle, length, and depth of the galleries, and spatial distribution of the structures were recorded. The structures were separated into two types: simple and complex, both located in high terrain. Simple structures are shorter than complex ones and are built when animals are in search of food or as temporary shelters. Complex structures are built as home burrows. The orientation of the entrances of both kinds of burrows is related to the prevalent wind direction.