Prairie Dog

ground squirrel · grasslands · super social

Not actually dogs. Despite their name, prairie dogs are ground squirrels, not canines. They're related to marmots and chipmunks, not to dogs at all.

Underground cities. Prairie dogs dig complex burrow systems called towns where hundreds or even thousands live together. Some of these prairie dog towns cover hundreds of acres.

Chatty communicators. Prairie dogs make barking sounds that inspired their name. Scientists think they use different calls to talk to each other and warn about danger.

Five types exist. There are five prairie dog species: black-tailed, white-tailed, Gunnison's, Utah, and Mexican prairie dogs. They live in grasslands from Canada down to Mexico.

Plant eaters. Prairie dogs are herbivores that munch on grasses, clover, and other plants. They spend much of their day foraging for food on the prairie.