Prarie dogs Prairie dogs are burrowing rodents that live in large colonies in the grasslands of central and western North America. There are five species of prairie dogs: black-tailed, white-tailed, Gunnison’s, Mexican and Utah. The most common species is the black-tailed prairie dog, the only species of prairie dog found within the vast Great Plains region of North America. Length: 12-15 inches (including 2-3 inch tail) Weight: 1-3 lbs. Lifespan: 3-5 years in the wild; 8 years in captivity

PRARIE DOGS “keystone” species because their colonies create islands of habitats that benefit approximately 150 other species. They are also a food source for many animals, including coyotes, eagles, badgers and critically endangered black-footed ferrets. Many species, like black-footed ferrets and tiger salamanders, use their burrows as homes. Prairie dogs even help aerate and fertilize the soil, allowing a greater diversity of plants to thrive.

PRARIE DOGS How Prairie Dogs Improve the Range The grazing and burrowing activities of prairie dogs improve forage quality, conserve water, and improve the soil. Prairie dogs contribute to diversity of plant species in the areas they inhabit. Constant foraging also ensures that plants must constantly regenerate themselves. Prairie dogs also help conserve water on the dry plains. Burrowing by prairie dogs improves the soil. It provides richer growing conditions for plants by mixing organic material, including their own droppings, from different layers into the soil.

The Role of Prairie Dogs in the Ecosystem Over 200 other species of wildlife have been observed in or near prairie dog colonies. Among the bird species known to prefer living with prairie dog colonies are horned larks, mourning doves, killdeer, barn swallows, and long-billed curlews. Some species not only prefer living with or near prairie dogs, they actually depend on them. Ex-The burrowing owl uses empty prairie dog burrows as nests and employs the mounds as vantage points from which to watch for the insects and small rodents that are their preferred food.