Prairie Dog Behavior and Ecology

The video explores the springtime activities of prairie dogs at Bryce Canyon National Park, focusing on Dr. John's efforts to trap and tag them for research. It highlights the challenges faced due to the prairie dogs' evasive nature and their attraction to oats. The breeding season is a critical time, with male prairie dogs engaging in territorial disputes to secure mating opportunities. The females have a very short window for mating, adding urgency to the males' actions.

What is the main challenge faced by Dr. John in tagging prairie dogs?

• The prairie dogs are aggressive.

• The prairie dogs are too small.

• There are too many prairie dogs.

• The prairie dogs are too fast.

What is the first step in the process of studying prairie dogs?

• Releasing them into the wild.

• Trapping and tagging them.

• Feeding them.

• Observing their behavior.

What do prairie dogs have a weakness for?

• Berries

• Carrots

• Oats

• Nuts

What happens when female prairie dogs emerge?

• They search for food.

• They begin to hibernate.

• They start building nests.

• They attract male prairie dogs.

During the breeding season, what are male prairie dogs primarily focused on?

• Finding food

• Building burrows

• Mating

• Protecting their young

How do male prairie dogs defend their territories?

• By engaging in territorial disputes

• By calling loudly

• By digging deeper burrows

• By marking with scent

What is a common behavior observed during prairie dog territorial disputes?

• Barking

• Digging

• Kissing

• Running in circles

What unusual behavior might male prairie dogs exhibit during disputes?

• Singing

• Rolling on the ground

• Jumping up and grappling in midair

• Hiding in burrows

How often are female prairie dogs in the mood to mate?

• Once a week

• Once a day

• Once a month

• Once a year

For how long are female prairie dogs typically receptive to mating?

• A few minutes

• A few days

• A few weeks

• A few hours