These threats, which contribute to the reduction of prairie dog acreage, result in colonies that are small, isolated and fragmented and therefore much more susceptible to disease outbreaks, catastrophic natural events, and genetic problems. The following lethal actions continue to be directed at prairie dogs and are affecting not only prairie dogs but entire communities of life. Click on the highlighted words below for more in-depth information. Poisoning has greatly reduced prairie dog populations. State agencies continue to advocate prairie dog poisoning on both public and private lands.
Development is an especially significant threat to prairie dogs in Colorado.
Shooting has significant impacts on prairie dogs, including dramatic population reductions and social disruption which may result in genetic inbreeding. The poisoner does not poison without the approval of the Colorado Division of Wildlife and the US Fish and Wildlife Service. The developer does not destroy habitat without municipal or county permission. The shooter does not shoot for sport without the consent of state agencies. Solutions to most of these threats will be found when the myths and stigma surrounding prairie dogs are eradicated.