Unfortunately, however, the reintroduction efforts in Wyoming were limited by disease and other factors, and the program in that area was suspended in 1995. Additional reintroduction efforts began in Montana and South Dakota in 1994 and have continued through 1996. Ferrets released in these States appear to have had higher survival rates than those in Wyoming and have not been impacted by disease to date. Animals prepared in this manner had significantly higher survival rates 30 days after their release than cage-reared ferrets. Captive breeding and reintroduction projects are the backbone of the national Black-footed Ferret Recovery Program.
Prairie dogs occur on a variety of prairie and high desert vegetative communities.
Their towns provide food and habitat for a diverse community of wildlife species. The burrows of prairie dogs are used as shelter and hibernation chambers for many species of snakes, lizards, and amphibians. The associated denuded lands also expose potential enemies and the prey animals on which the owls feed. The burrowing owl is in serious decline throughout many parts of its range in direct response to losses of prairie dog colonies. Prairie dogs clip tall-growing vegetation within their towns to enhance predator detection.