* Habitat: Availability of food, shelter, and suitable burrows.
* Predation: Presence of predators like coyotes, foxes, hawks, and eagles.
* Disease: Outbreaks of plague or other diseases can decimate populations.
* Weather: Harsh winters or droughts can lead to increased mortality.
* Human impact: Habitat loss, poisoning, and other human activities can affect survival.
However, a general estimate is that only about 10-20% of prairie dog pups survive to their first year. This means that out of a litter of 4-6 pups, only 1 or 2 might make it to adulthood.
It's important to note that these are rough estimates, and the actual survival rate can be much higher or lower in specific situations.