Where does the black-tailed prairie dog live?
The black-tailed prairie dog lives in the Great Plains of North America, from about the United States–Canada border to the United States–Mexico border. Before habitat destruction, it may have been the most abundant prairie dog in central North America. A black-tailed prairie dog town in Texas was reported to cover 64,000 km² and include 400,000,000 individuals. It was described by the Lewis and Clark Expedition in the journals of their expedition.
What does the black-tailed prairie dog eat?
It is a rodent of the squirrel family. Unlike some other prairie dogs, it does not truly hibernate: it can be seen above ground in midwinter. It is generally tan in colour, with lighter-coloured bellies, and has long black claws. Its weight varies with the seasons, peaking in autumn and falling to a minimum in late winter.
Is the black-tailed prairie dog endangered?
No: the IUCN lists it as Least Concern. It is the most widespread prairie dog species and the one found in captivity. The male is 10 to 15% heavier than the female: 850 to 1,675 g for 35.8 to 41.5 cm long, against 705 to 1,050 g for 35.2 to 37.5 cm in the female.
