Management of Black-Tailed Prairie Dogs On The National Grasslands

Abstract

Black-tailed prairie dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus) occupy approximately 22,800 ha on 11 National Grasslands in the West. Prairie dog control has been implemented on 5 National Grasslands and is planned for 1 additional National Grassland. A unique prairie dog management program in the Conata Basin area of the Buffalo Gap National Grassland is highlighted in this report. Conata Basin is a major prairie dog area and attempts are being made to control prairie dogs while trying to maintain habitat for the black-footed ferret (Mustela nigripes). Repopulation of treated colonies has been a major and costly problem in Conata Basin, and it appears that most treated colonies will need re-treatment at least every 3 years.