The wildlife of the American West has adapted to the harsh conditions of the prairie. Periodic disturbances, such as fire, drought, and wind are abiotic factors that all prairie organisms must endure. Poor soil conditions and drought also restrict the growth of large plants, primarily trees and bushes. To account for this lack of protective growth, some prairie animals live in large social groups, while others inhabit protective burrows.

photo M. Noonan

Click on any of the links at the left to learn how specific species have adapted to the prairie environment.