Mexican Prairie Dog
Cynomys mexicanus
Conservation Status
EndangeredMammalia · Rodentia · Sciuridae
About
The Mexican prairie dog is a diurnal burrowing rodent native to north-central Mexico. It is classified as a keystone species due to its large impact on other species and the environment. Treatment as an agricultural pest has led to its status as an endangered species. They are closely related to squirrels, chipmunks, and marmots. Cynomys mexicanus originated about 230,000 years ago from a peripherally isolated population of the more widespread Cynomys ludovicianus.
Fun Fact
A typical town has a funnel-like entrance that slants down into a corridor up to 100 ft (30 m) long, with side chambers for storage and nesting.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Found in the regions of southern Coahuila and northern San Luis Potosí in northern Mexico, where they eat herbs and grasses native to the plains where they live.
Diet
To be updated
Lifespan
3–5 years
Threats
- Habitat Loss
- Poaching and Hunting
- Human-Wildlife Conflict
- Disease