That's a good point, Phil. Rather than outrunning a fire like a larger animal, taking
shelter is likely the best way they survive. The insulating properties of the soil and the moisture content probably buffer the temperature extremes from the fire, which is already cooler when done in a prescribed fashion. I think that's the missing piece for how healthy populations of these animals could have existed over countless generations of cultural burning, they hunker down.
I also think I need to consider timing, as the importance of leaf litter, dead herb stems and the like is absolutely critical for overwintering various small critters. But, no one is burning their landscapes over the winter, at least not in places that have a true winter that requires overwintering. During the growing season, I imagine mobility is far easier for these animals.
Eric S.