The Gunnison's prairie dog (Cynomys gunnisoni) is one of five species of prairie dog, all of which are native to North America. The other four prairie dog species have been listed under the Endangered Species Act, are candidates awaiting listing, or have been petitioned for listing. The Gunnison's prairie dog occurs in the four corners area of Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah.

Its current habitat has been reduced by more than 90% of its historical range, and the onslaught on its home territory has not diminished. Oil and gas drilling, urban sprawl, sylvatic plague, and continued shooting and poisoning of these animals all threaten the species with extinction.

The Gunnison's prairie dog is a keystone species of the sagebrush ecosystem. They create habitat, provide food, and help keep the soil and plant communities healthy. For example, their abandoned burrows are used by burrowing owls, weasels, snakes, badgers, and even foxes. The prairie dog is an important food source for coyote, weasels, foxes, hawks, eagles, and the endangered black footed ferret. In addition, their burrowing helps to aerate the soil, add organic matter, and increase water penetration. As with the white-tailed prairie and the other prairie dog species, the entire prairie dog ecosystem is at risk.

In February 2003, Center for Native Ecosystems joined Forest Guardians and others in an effort to secure Endangered Species Act protection for the Gunnison's prairie dog. We are continuing to press for protections for this critical animal.