The prairie was a rich world of abundant grasses and flowers that teemed with wildlife, from huge herds of bison, elk and antelope to an immense number of waterfowl. Since 1840, more than 99 per cent of Minnesota's natural prairies have been built upon or plowed under. Scientists have been studying prairie since the 1930's. These perennial plants grow back quickly from protected root systems which often extend 15 feet underground. After a fire passes, the prairie grasses and other plants respond with a profusion of bloom.
Studies show that wild mammals and birds recognize fire and nearly all escape the flames.
Small mammals go underground while larger ones move away temporarily or jump unharmed across the fire line. Occasionally slow-moving snakes and frogs may die and some bird nests may be lost if the fire occurs during nesting season. Birds are excellent re- nesters, however. No more than one-half of a preserve is burned at any one time and many sites are a matrix of burned and unburned patches. Thus, habitat remains for prairie animals immediately following the fire.