The Coterie Natural Area#
Trail Status
Description#
A coterie is a family group of prairie dogs. A coterie typically consists of one adult male, several adult females, and their offspring- its a closely knit group, recognizing each other by an identifying kiss or sniff. Family groups cooperate to raise young, construct burrows, groom each other, play and defend the coterie territory.
The Natural Areas Department acquired The Coterie Natural Area in 2000 in order to protect the prairie dog colony. Bicyclists and pedestrians on the trail often stop to watch the antics of these active creatures.
Photos#
Trails#
0.1 miles of the paved (wheelchair accessible) Spring Creek Trail goes through The Coterie Natural Area.
Hours#
5:00 a.m. 11:00 p.m.
Directions#
Nearest parking is Edora Park on Riverside Street, trail access from Spring Creek Trail.
Activities and Events#
- Free educational activities and events in June-October are listed in the Natural Areas Explorer booklet guide.
- Last minute activity additions, trail recommendations and events offered between November-May are in our free monthly electronic newsletter- sign up on this page.
- Free educational programs at The Coterie Natural Area are available for groups by request, call the Master Naturalist Program at 970-224-6118 or email achlebnik@fcgov.com .
Related Information#
- Know before you go safety and recreation information.
- Plant List for The Coterie Natural Area. Volunteers were critical in making the list possible, thank you!
- Core Natural Areas Management Plan
- Special people have volunteered to take an active role in the stewardship of natural areas by doing monthly litter pick-ups. You can join the fun and adopt a natural area, too!
- Wildlife Management Guidelines