As I was walking with my corgi in the south pasture, I found what appeared to be a tiny tower hidden among some clover. At first I wondered if it had something to do with the frogs who burrow in the ground.
But after searching online, I found out that this tiny mud structure is built by a prairie crayfish! An actual land-dwelling crayfish! They live underground in deep, water-filled burrows. These “chimneys” provide air circulation as well as offering shelter to other wildlife — including those burrowing frogs.
I’m just glad the wee creature didn’t make an appearance while I was studying his handiwork — this photo of one I found online is positively creepy!
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