In a notable conservation effort, the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge (FWNC&R), in partnership with the Friends of the Fort Worth Nature Center, has successfully relocated a new colony of black-tailed prairie dogs to its grounds. This initiative is a significant step forward following the loss of the FWNC&R’s previous prairie dog colony in 2015, which was likely caused by disease.
The relocation was conducted by FWNC&R natural resource staff Nic Martinez and David Reasoner, along with Friends board member Megan McConnell. They traveled to Canyon, Texas, to capture and transport the prairie dogs due to the impending construction of a housing development at their original location.
Prairie dogs are a keystone species crucial to maintaining the health of prairie ecosystems and offer valuable educational opportunities for the public. “Translocations are inherently challenging and typically are a last-resort measure in wildlife management, but we are fully committed to providing this colony with the best possible conditions for establishing a new home here,” said FWNC&R Acting Manager Dr. Jared Wood. He emphasized the use of flea control bait to prevent disease transmission, which is essential for the long-term health and stability of the colony.
The project was supported by Friends board member emeritus Marty Leonard, who recalled the previous colony’s positive impact on the community. “I was thrilled to be a part of such a great, collaborative effort supporting the establishment of a new prairie dog colony at the Nature Center,” Leonard said. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see them safe and thriving thus far in their new Fort Worth home.”
Upon arrival, the prairie dogs were released using traps that open into artificial burrows, constructed by FWNC&R staff and volunteers. These burrows provide initial shelter and protection as the prairie dogs begin to dig and establish their own burrow system. FWNC&R staff are also providing daily food to support the colony's transition, ensuring they receive adequate hydration through their diet.
“Working with the prairie dogs has been an enjoyable experience for my team,” Wood added. “While we are optimistic the colony will succeed, we recognize the uncertainties in relocating wildlife. The re-establishment of prairie dogs at the Nature Center not only will enrich our pastures but also serve as an invaluable educational resource for our visitors.”
The new prairie dogs are now available for public viewing.
