Arizona’s Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) is reporting significant progress in its program to reintroduce the black-tailed prairie dog to its historic natural habitat in the state.
A September 2022 survey by AZGFD scientists determined that the Cieneguita and Sands Ranch prairie dog colony sites, located in the Las Cienegas National Conservation Area in Sonoita, have each doubled in size over the past four years. There was a strong increase from Spring 2022, when the last biannual trapping event was conducted.
AZGFD scientists speculate that the population growth in 2022 may have been due to increased rains and grass growth in the summer of 2021, which allowed for greater reproductive productivity the following spring. A greater food supply helps promote a larger juvenile population and sustain the adult population.
Black-tailed prairie dogs were once widely distributed over western North America. However, at the beginning of the 20th century, they were seen as pests, and control programs were put into action. Over the last century, their distribution within their range has dwindled to 2% of what it had been. By 1960, the species was extirpated in Arizona.
Later research found that the black-tailed prairie dog was a keystone species in grassland environments. It provided a unique, significant service, disproportionate to its numbers that no other species could fill. According to AZGFD, “Many species utilize prairie dog burrows such as burrowing owls, black-footed ferrets, swift foxes and rattlesnakes. Prairie dogs are a common prey for raptors, coyotes, and badgers, and they are the primary diet for black-footed ferrets. When prairie dogs are removed from the landscape, many of these animals decline as well.”
Research also established that prairie dogs provide nutrient rich soil which produced rich vegetation for grazers. The maintenance of their colonies prevented woody encroachment, adding to biodiversity, and created natural fire breaks.
The next trapping event at the colonies will be conducted this spring. Volunteers are always welcome. For more information on how to get involved, contact AZGFD Birds and Mammals Biologist Jennifer Presler at jpresler@azgfd.gov