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Cynomys ludovicianus
These rodents are mostly tan in color with a belly that is slightly lighter. The tail is tipped in black. Adults are 14-17 inches in length. These particular prairie dogs, however, are white! See note below.
Prairie grasslands ranging from the US/Canada border south to Mexico.
I was amazed by these prairie dogs. I had never heard of white prairie dogs. The entire colony of, perhaps, 50 dogs were white with one exception that was normally colored. I suspect their isolation from other prairie dogs and their small numbers have encouraged some inbreeding with one result of unusual recessive genetics being expressed in their white coloration. I've done some research, but haven't found any mention of other white prairie dogs. Fascinating....
7 Comments
Wow i never had seen white prairie dog
cute!
Hi Gordon, Thank you for all of the wonderful pictures. I just started a Wildlife of South Dakota Local mission to try to collect and document south dakota wildlife in one place. I would be honored if you would join the mission!
This spotting is perfect for the mission 'Rare Color Morphs':
http://www.projectnoah.org/missions/7970...
Lovely!
adorable!
Really cool - I've never seen white prairie dogs either!