See Prairie Dogs in Their Prairie Dog Towns

Check out the main attraction at prairie dog town!

NPS Photo

Prairie dogs, which are burrowing ground squirrels, are perhaps the easiest found animals in the park. The name "prairie dog" came from their bark-like call, not from their appearance. They were called "petit chien" or "little dog" by early French explorers and were scientifically described in the journals of Lewis and Clark.

There are five species of prairie dog in North America, but this park has one prairie dog species, the black-tailed prairie dog, named for the black tip of its tail.

Description

Prairie dogs have small ears, short tails, and muscular legs. Their fur is buff-colored and often blends with the earth in which they dig their burrows. 

Prairie dogs rely on keen hearing, excellent eyesight and a communal warning system for protection against predators. They are social animals and the areas they inhabit are known as towns or colonies. Town is a good term because, in a way, their towns are much like ours. A dog town may vary in size from an acre to several hundred acres.

Tips for Spotting Them

Prairie dogs can be found in their prairie dog towns throughout the park. 

Remember: DO NOT FEED THE WILDLIFE.

Details

Activity

Wildlife Watching

Pets Allowed

No

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Accessibility Information

Most wildlife viewing at Wind Cave National Park can be done from your vehicle.