Smaller grazers are still found here, too.  But they stay put instead of wandering the plains. Prairie dogs inhabit rambling subterranean towns that stretch tens of square miles. These highly social creatures stay within a short dash of their door, ready to retreat from predators or by weather.  It’s always maintenance work to do, but major renovations have to wait until after rain when the soil is soft.  All this working and re-working helps the land recover from the impact of so many bigger feet and appetites. 

 

At summer's end, male bison help to move the sun-baked soil as the rutting season starts. They roll in dust and paw the ground to try to dominate their rivals. The dust bath also helps to dislodge irritating insects. 

 

A prairie dog colony is usually surrounded by short, nutritious grass, thanks to the many teeth and toe. This constant grazing stimulates fresh growth and also keeps the field of vision clear for spotting predators. Larger neighbours are attracted to these burgeoning meadows, just as they were 13,000 years ago.