Prairie dogs are found in the western United States.
Prairie dogs live out on grass prairies, plateaus and some desert areas.
They are a grizzled, yellow color, can be up to 1.5 feet long, including their tail and weigh up to 3 pounds.
Prairie dogs dig large burrows that are made up of long tunnels and chambers. Many prairie dog burrows in one area is called a town. They are active during the day (diurnal) sitting above the opening of their burrows. They give a sharp warning call when sensing danger and dive to the safety of their holes. They live in groups with one male and several females.
They are rodents and herbivores eating grasses, roots, weeds, and flowers.
Predators include coyotes, bobcats, eagles, hawks, black footed ferrets, rattlesnakes, bull snakes and badgers.
Females have one litter per year. They are pregnant for 1 month (gestation) and have up to 8 young.
They can live 3-5 years in the wild.
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Amsel, Sheri. "Prairie Dogs (General Information)" Exploring Nature Educational Resource ©2005-2024. December 13, 2024
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