Facts

Black-tailed prairie dog (courtesy of Victor Love Photography)

There are five species of prairie dogs: black-tailed, white-tailed, Gunnison's, Mexican, and Utah.

According to the Shortgrass Prairie Initiative, Colorado's shortgrass prairie is home to 29 "at risk" plant and animal species, including Pueblo goldenweed, golden blazing star, round-leaf four-o'clock, Arkansas Valley evening primrose, the western box turtle, the cylindrical papershell (a mollusk), and the lark bunting (Colorado's state bird).

According to Environment Colorado, 10 acres per hour are developed. Much of that land is a prairie ecosystem.

The black-footed ferret is the most endangered mammal in America. Their primary food source is prairie dogs, and prairie dogs have declined up to 99% across their historical range.

Twelve or more plants can inhabit a square meter of native prairie. The root mass of prairie plants can comprise up to 90% of the plant.

More facts coming soon!