Black-tailed Prairie Dog
Cynomys ludovicianus
Black-tailed prairie dogs are found in the Great Plains
of North America from about the United States-
Canada border to the USA-Mexico border. They live
in underground burrows, marked by many mounds of
packed earth at their surface entrances. Black-tailed
prairie dogs live in colonies. Colony size may range
from fi ve to thousands of individuals Burrows have
defi ned nurseries, sleeping quarters, and even toilets.
They also feature listening posts near exits, so animals
can safely keep tabs on the movements of predators
outside. Their communication structure is very complex
and advanced.
of North America from about the United States-
Canada border to the USA-Mexico border. They live
in underground burrows, marked by many mounds of
packed earth at their surface entrances. Black-tailed
prairie dogs live in colonies. Colony size may range
from fi ve to thousands of individuals Burrows have
defi ned nurseries, sleeping quarters, and even toilets.
They also feature listening posts near exits, so animals
can safely keep tabs on the movements of predators
outside. Their communication structure is very complex
and advanced.
DIET
Prairie dogs are chiefly herbivorous, though they eat
some insects. They feed primarily on grasses and
small seeds.
some insects. They feed primarily on grasses and
small seeds.
FAST FACTS
Size: 14 – 17 inches length
Weight: 2 – 4 lbs
Lifespan: 5 – 7 years in
the wild.
Weight: 2 – 4 lbs
Lifespan: 5 – 7 years in
the wild.