Despite the fact that its name includes the word “dog,” the prairie dog is a type of ground squirrel. Prairie dogs are classified into five species. These endearing creatures can be found in North America, Canada, and Mexico. Prairie dogs can be found in open grasslands and prairies. Because a large portion of their habitat has already been converted into pastures and farming areas, the population of prairie dogs has been reduced to only 5% of its original size. Hunting is another factor that threatens prairie dog survival. Prairie dogs are killed by farmers because they are considered pests. Prairie dog populations in Utah and Mexico are listed as endangered.
Prairie dogs are about the size of rabbits. They can grow to be 12 to 15 inches long and weigh 2 to 4 pounds.
The prairie dog’s body is covered in brownish-grey fur. They have tiny, round ears and a short tail (usually 3 to 4 inches long).
Prairie dogs are highly social creatures that live in large colonies. Each colony is made up of smaller family groups known as “coteries,” which are made up of a male, one or more females, and their offspring.
Members of the same group will show their affection for one another by kissing and grooming one another.
Prairie dogs will be aggressive toward other colonies and family groups. Members of the group will band together to drive away any unwanted newcomers.
A prairie dog colony can cover a large area (up to 25 000 square miles) and contain hundreds of millions of animals.
Life in a colony protects against predators. Prairie dogs use a unique alarm call (which sounds like barking) to warn other members of the group of impending danger.
Prairie dogs face numerous predators due to their small size. Coyotes, badgers, ravens, hawks, eagles, and large snakes are the main predators.
Prairie dogs live in burrows underground. Each burrow has a “toilet,” a nursery, and a resting area.
Other animals, such as snakes, black-footed ferrets, and burrowing owls, can take over these burrows.
Prairie dogs eat plants. During the day, they eat various types of grass, seeds, and roots.
During the winter, prairie dogs hibernate. They will survive by utilizing the energy stored in fat tissue over the course of the year. During hot winter days, some prairie dog species will wake up to eat.
Mating season lasts from February to April, depending on the species and geographical region.
After a 28-32-day pregnancy, the female gives birth to 3 to 8 pups. Babies are born blind and hairless. They require special care for the first 30 days of their lives. They are ready to leave the burrow after that time.
