Black-Tailed Prairie Dog

Black-Tailed Prairie Dog (Cynomys lucovicianus)

• Social rodent native to the western area of North America
• Measure about 15 inches (38 cm) in length and weigh about 3 pounds (1.4 kg)
• Live in communities with other prairie dogs
• Use a sophisticated system of vocal communication to warn of specific predators
• Do not hibernate and are diurnal
• Diet consists of green vegetation and occasional insects
• Homes are deep burrows which are bedded with leaves and grass
• Conservation Status: Least Concern