Species MammalsGunnison's Prairie Dog

Gunnison's Prairie Dog

Cynomys gunnisoni

UncommonMammal
Illustration of Gunnison's Prairie Dog (Cynomys gunnisoni)

Gunnison's Prairie Dog is a white-tailed species found in the higher elevation grasslands of the Four Corners region, with colonies that are generally smaller and less densely occupied than those of the black-tailed prairie dog. It hibernates lightly during winter, reducing activity considerably during cold periods. Its colonies provide critical habitat for burrowing owls, black-footed ferrets, and swift foxes.

Habitat
Mountain grasslands of Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico
Diet
Grasses, forbs, and roots
How common
Uncommon

Best time to see a Gunnison's Prairie Dog

The best time to see a Gunnison's Prairie Dog is April–July, when about 70% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 2,697 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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