Assessing the extent and connectivity of animal burrows using smoke: a practical tool for levee inspections

Abstract

This short communication presents a practical tool for assessing the subsurface connectivity of animal burrows, with emphasis on its potential for early detection and evaluation of animal-induced damages in levees that can compromise the structure during high water emergencies. Drawing inspiration from fundamental biology research and plumbing leak testing, the technique involves injection of coloured smoke into burrows using smoke bombs. A leaf blower then propels the smoke through the burrow network, enabling the identification of openings and providing insights into subsurface connections. Systematically tested in various environments and applied to investigate burrow networks of diverse animal species, including crabs, voles, and moles, the results underscore the efficacy of the smoke test as a rapid, non-destructive, and cost-effective approach for detecting interconnected burrow networks.