Shanahan Ridge Neighbors

Prairie Dogs!

Feb 14, 2008

Endangered nationally, the Black Tailed Prairie Dog is actually a plentiful wild neighbor of Shanahan Ridge.

The most accessable community or "Prairie Dog Town" is located one mile south of Greenbriar Blvd and Broadway intersection off Marshall Road. To access the dogs, ride the bicycle trail or drive to the South Boulder Creek trailhead located by the gate on the east side of Marshall Road (opposite Shanahan Ranch). The first section of the Prairie Dog colony is quickly located to the north of the trail. Sunny days will find the little rodents standing near their dirt mounds, often with several family members.

A more viewable section of the colony is directly adjacent to the same trail several tenths of a mile in. Near the wooden bridge, walkers and bicyclists must swerve to avoid the mounds and dogs who have built near AND ON the hiking trail.

Prairie dog viewing also invites predator viewing. Eagles, hawks, and coyotes are often in the vicinity as well.

Another separate colony is located directly over the Ridge from our Smuggler townhomes. Access can be made by walking through the open space gate and proceding down the hill. Human residents are encouraged to keep domestic dogs away from the teaming prairie dog colony. Also remember that land to the east and south of this access point is still private property of the Shanahan Family. Respect for both Shanahan land and prairie dog land will assure future access and enjoyment.

Meet some of the smallest and more interesting of our neighbors--the black tailed prairie dogs!