Among the list of predators are hawks, various snakes, the now extinct black footed ferret, and man. Prairie dogs are remarkably sociable animals. Kissing, hugging, or touching noses are common greetings among the individuals of the coterie. Relationships within the coterie vary seasonally. The spring and summer seasons are often relaxed and friendly.
Aggression builds in the fall and during winter months, the males often fight each other.
This variation in attitude is closely linked to the gestation periods of the female. Breeding lasts from late February into April and actual gestation takes 30 to 35 days. Man has been detrimental to the population of prairie dogs living outside of captivity. It is legal to hunt prairie dogs and the animals are often used for target practice or as the primary contestant in killing contests. Here are some examples of these killing contests.