Nighttime aboveground movements by prairie dogs on colonies inhabited by black-footed ferrets
January 1, 2010
We describe observations of black-tailed prairie dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus) emerging aboveground at night, apparently in response to wild-born and captive-born black-footed ferrets (Mustela nigripes) in South Dakota and New Mexico, respectively. We also discuss other similar observations accumulated on black-tailed prairie dog colonies as well as observations of white-tailed prairie dogs (Cynomys leucurus) making nighttime movements, apparently in response to pre-reintroduction ferrets in Wyoming. Our observations suggest that, in addition to documented daytime defenses against ferrets, prairie dogs reduce vulnerability to predation by ferrets by using evasive movements at night.
Citation Information
| Publication Year | 2010 |
|---|---|
| Title | Nighttime aboveground movements by prairie dogs on colonies inhabited by black-footed ferrets |
| Authors | David A. Eads, Jennifer G. Chipault, Dean E. Biggins, Travis M. Livieri, Joshua J. Millspaugh |
| Publication Type | Article |
| Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
| Series Title | Western North American Naturalist |
| Index ID | 70194392 |
| Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
| USGS Organization | Fort Collins Science Center |