Some species, in fact, have either become more abundant or extended their ranges because of the greater diversity of habitats. The mammals present at Midewin thrive in the diversity of habitats that exist at the site. Some of these are true prairie species. It prefers prairies with shorter grasses or disturbed, weedy areas. It is on the Illinois watch list and occurs at Midewin.
Prairie mammals affect prairie habitat in a variety of ways.
The plains pocket gopher reduces the nitrogen content of the surface soil depositing the less nitrogen-rich subsoils at the surface while burrowing.