Prairie Dogs

Prairie Dogs are the most social members of the Squirrel Family and are closely related to ground squirrels, chipmunks and marmots. There are 5 species of Prairie Dogs (genus Cynomys).

 

Vocalization

 

Prairie Dogs have a high-pitched, bark-like call. Recent studies suggest that Prairie Dogs possess the most sophisticated of all natural animal languages. They apparently issue different sounds identifying various predators, which include hawks, owls, eagles, ravens, coyotes, badgers, ferrets and snakes. Prairie Dogs can run up to 35 miles per hour for short distances. The Prairie Dog has only one defense that works -- raising the alarm and disappearing quickly.

 

Vital Stats

 

Weight: 1.5-3 lbs.

Length with tail: 3-5"

Shoulder Height: 3-4"

Sexual Maturity: 1 year

Mating Season: March-April

Gestation Period: 28-32 days

No. of Young: 3-8, 5 avg.

Birth Interval: 1 year

Lifespan: 3-5 years in the wild

 

Class: Mammalia

Order: Rodentia

Sub Order: Sciurognathi

Family: Sciuridae

Sub Family: Sciurinae

Genus: Cynomys

Species: 5 in North America

 

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