Cynomys ludovicianus

The black-tailed prairie dog is a small but mighty mammal of North America’s grasslands and an important species found across the Great Plains.

Black-tailed prairie dogs live in open prairies and grasslands where they build large underground colonies called “towns.” These towns can cover hundreds of acres and include hundreds of burrows. Their tunnel systems provide shelter from predators and extreme weather.

Prairie dogs are herbivores, meaning they eat plants. Their diet includes grasses, roots, seeds, and flowers. By grazing, they help keep vegetation short, which improves visibility and creates better habitats for other grassland animals.

Black-tailed prairie dogs are very social and communicate using a complex system of barks and calls to warn each other about predators. Each call can describe the type of predator and even its size and speed!

Prairie dogs play a crucial role in their ecosystem. As a keystone species, their burrows provide homes for animals like burrowing owls, snakes, rabbits, insects, and even black-footed ferrets. Their digging also helps aerate the soil and improve plant growth.

Did You Know?
Black-tailed prairie dogs are awake during the day (diurnal) and spend hours socializing with their colony members. They greet each other with “kisses” to strengthen social bonds!