How to Identify Animal Burrows and Holes

When wandering through nature, you'll often spot a burrow or hole and wonder who it belongs to! Burrows are one of nature’s most fascinating shelters. From prairie dogs in North America to the nine-banded armadillo of South America, animals dig holes, tunnels, and elaborate networks in the earth for protection, food storage, and breeding.

Here in the UK, we have our well-known burrowers such as badgers, foxes, rabbits, and rats, each with unique burrow characteristics.

This guide walks you through the common UK animal burrows, what to look for, and how to tell them apart safely.

Safety Tips for Finding Burrowing Animals

When searching for animal burrows, it's essential to remember that these are the animals' homes, so it's best to avoid disturbing active burrows. Many species are protected by law in the UK, so it's illegal to intentionally harm them.

When startled, even small mammals might bite, so don't put your hands inside the burrow. Stay cautious to protect yourself and the wildlife around you. Rather than poking around inside the hole, you can look for droppings, paw prints, and other clues to find out whose nest it is.

Why Do Animals Create Burrows?

Many animals construct burrows in the ground to provide shelter from predators and extreme weather conditions.

They also use it to store fresh food remains safely and create a temporary refuge during the breeding season, where they can safely raise their young.

Some species are primary excavators, digging their own homes, while others are secondary modifiers or simple occupants, taking over abandoned burrows.

What Animal Is Digging Holes?

Here are some common animal burrows you might spot on your travels.

Badger Setts

• Diameter: 25–35 cm, often with multiple entrance holes.

• Signs: Large soil mounds, smooth den entrances, well-worn grass trails.

• Burrows are built under tree roots or banks in soft soil.

Fox Burrows

• Single entrance burrows or old rabbit warrens are enlarged.

• Signs of fresh food scraps and prey nearby.

• Strong musky scent.

Rabbit Warrens

• Many holes, each 10–15 cm wide.

• Located in sandy soil or fine sand areas.

• Fresh droppings and grazed vegetation.

Rat Holes

• Small holes (6–9 cm) are often found near wooden structures, compost heaps, or walls.

• Smooth edges from repeated use.

• Sometimes, with fresh food remaining nearby.

Other Burrowers

• Squirrels: Usually in trees, but may dig small holes to bury food.

• Insects: Such as the funnel web spider in arid environments with fine sand entrances.

• Ground squirrels, gophers, and other larger mammals aren’t native to the UK, but have similar burrow characteristics if you’re abroa