How to identify an active prairie dog town?

Signs of Activity

When searching for a prairie dog town, look for signs of recent digging and burrow use, such as fresh soil mounds around entrance holes and new vegetation growth near burrows. Prairie dogs are prolific diggers, and their activity can be observed by checking for recently excavated soil, which can be 2-3 times larger than the burrow entrance. Look for a cluster of burrows with multiple entrances and a mix of small and large holes, indicating different family members and generations.

Warning Calls

Listen for warning calls from prairie dogs, which can be a high-pitched chirp or whistle, often repeated several times in a row. These calls are usually a sign that the animals have detected a predator, such as a hunter or a hawk, and are alerting the rest of the colony. Listen carefully for a chorus of calls, which can be a strong indication of an active town.

Animal Behavior

Observe the behavior of the prairie dogs, particularly their movement patterns and social interactions. In an active town, prairie dogs will often be seen foraging for food, interacting with each other, and engaging in playful behavior. Look for large numbers of animals in close proximity to each other, as well as a mix of adults, juveniles, and older animals, which can indicate a healthy and thriving colony.