Why does the CDOW allow people to relocate prairie dogs?
Public interest in urban and suburban prairie dog populations is strong in some regions of the state. Especially in suburban and urban areas, where development is planned for old-field communities on which prairie dogs have been living, demand for alternatives to colony destruction can be substantial. These prairie dog communities are valued for numerous reasons, including, but not limited to, the wildlife viewing and educational opportunities they offer, as well as the local ecological contribution – prairie dog colonies often attract other interesting and valued wildlife species such as hawks and eagles. When suitable release sites are available, and there is local support for relocation, prairie dog relocation can be permitted. DOW does require that release site managers have a plan for minimizing or mitigating any potential damage to local properties. • Why aren’t more prairie dogs relocated? One of the biggest challenges for people seeking to relocate prairie dogs is finding avail
