Prairie Dogs
Cynomys ludovicianusPrairie Dog Identification
Pest Stats
Color
Generally sandy brown to cinnamon in color with grizzled black tips; belly is light cream to white
Legs
4
Shape
Short, muscular legs and a short tail; bodies covered in rather coarse hair with little fur underneath
Size
Adult black-tailed prairie dogs are 14” to 17” (36 cm to 43 cm) long.
Antennae
No
Region
Great Plains
What Do Prairie Dogs Look Like?
On average, adult black-tailed prairie dogs are 15 inches long. Their bodies are covered in rather coarse sandy brown to cinnamon hair with grizzled black tips. Prairie dog bodies have little fur underneath. The fur they do have on their belly is light cream to white. Prairie dogs have four short muscular legs and a short tail.
What Do Prairie Dogs Eat?
In the spring and summer, black-tailed prairie dogs consume up to two pounds of green grasses. They also eat flowers, seeds, shoots, roots and insects when available.
Prairie Dog Infestation
How to Get Rid of Prairie Dogs
The most effective way to prevent an influx of prairie dogs on your property is to install fences, hay bales and other objects that can be used to reduce their visibility. If you suspect a prairie dog infestation, contact a licensed pest control professional to help you get rid of it.

Prairie Dog Education
Habits
Black-tailed prairie dogs are most active in the summer months and spend their days foraging. This species does not truly hibernate during the colder months and can be seen above ground in mid-winter. However, black-tailed prairie dogs may seek shelter underground for several days during severe winter conditions.
Habitat
The black-tailed prairie dog lives in densely populated colonies scattered across the Great Plains from northern Mexico to southern Canada. Occasionally, the species is found in the Rocky Mountains, but rarely at elevations exceeding 8,000 feet.
All prairie dog species prefer open areas of vegetation, commonly inhabiting grasslands. They do not tolerate tall vegetation well and avoid brush and timbered areas. In the Great Plains region, black-tailed prairie dogs often establish colonies near rivers and creeks.
Threats
Prairie dogs rarely come in contact with humans; however, they are capable of carrying disease organisms, such as plague.
Prairie dogs also bring with them another threat in the form of rattlesnakes and black widow spiders, which are frequently found in prairie dog towns. Rattlesnakes often rest in burrows during the day, while black widow spiders form webs in abandoned prairie dog holes. Bites from both of these pests are rare but can be fatal. Prairie dogs also pose a threat to local vegetation and livestock due to their continual feeding habits.