PRAIRIE DOG

Prairie Dogs are locally common in the desertlands of the Navajo Nation. They are burrowing animals that construct elaborate burrow systems that serve their year-long needs. They live in large family groups, called 'towns.' Unlike most desert mammals, they are diurnal, meaning that they are active during the day. Prairie Dogs are known as a 'keystone species' because they are very important for the desert ecosystem and create habitat for many other animals. Prairie Dogs are herbivores ground squirrels that feed on grasses, forbs, roots and plant seeds.

Prairie Dogs are called 'Dloo' in the Navajo language. Prairie Dog are known for their family structure; they live, work, eat and protect one another. It is said that one can look at them to see community and friendship.