Vegetation Changes Induced by Prairie Dogs on Shortgrass Range

Abstract

This study documented some effects of prairie dogs on a shortgrass type of the Central Plains Experimental Range approximately 35 miles northeast of Fort Collins, Colo., and an adjacent area. Prairie dogs changed the plant species composition of the two sites studied, but these changes were not all detrimental. Species diversity was greater and some plant species used by livestock were more abundant inside than outside the prairie dog towns.