Hobbies And Interests
Endangered Species
The Utah prairie dog is on the U.S. Endangered Species List as a threatened species. Measures to control the rodent were introduced in 1920 when their numbers reached a high level. By the 1960s, the Utah prairie dog population had experienced a steep decline; their numbers were decimated by sylvatic plague, poisoning, drought and changes to their natural habitat from farming and livestock grazing. By 1970 the population was down to only 3,300 individuals and 37 prairie dog colonies. Since being placed on the Endangered Species List, the numbers have been steadily climbing for the past ten years and have reached an average population of 34,279.
Physical Traits
Utah prairie dogs range from one to three pounds in weight and 12 to 14 inches long. Diminutive creatures, Utah prairie dogs are the smallest of the five North American prairie dog species. They blend in well with Utah's desert surroundings and range in color from cinnamon to clay. These rodents have dark marks above their eyes and at the top of their tails.
Habitat
No other species of prairie dog lives as far west as the Utah prairie dog. These prairie dogs are found only in the southwestern corner of the state of Utah. Historically, the species was more spread out across Utah but today is confined to three counties - the Awapa Plateau, Paunsaugunt and West Desert. Utah prairie dogs prefer to dwell in mountain environments and live at elevations between 5,400 and 9,500 feet.
Diet
Flowers, seeds, grass, leaves and certain insects make up the diet of Utah prairie dogs. They are burrowing rodents that are active during both the day and night. They sleep, breed and hide from predators in vast networks of underground tunnels which they themselves dig. These animals breed in the spring, usually in March and give birth to pips 30 days later in April. Pups emerge from underground dens in late May, just before the summer hits.