Slobodchikoff began studying the social behavior of prairie dogs about 20 years ago. He gradually recognized signs that the foot-long, 2-pound rodents, which live in colonies, appeared to have a ...

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. I write about biodiversity and the hidden quirks of the natural world. This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more. This ...

Prairie dogs start barking bloody murder and scramble for their burrows as a hawk glides fast and low over the colony. The emergency broadcast gives the rotund fur balls ample warning. For the raptor, ...