1. Teepee or Tipi: Native American tribes, such as the Sioux and Blackfoot, used teepees as portable shelters in the Great Plains grasslands. These cone-shaped structures were made from animal skins or bark and provided insulation against the elements.
2. Sod Houses: Early settlers in the North American prairies constructed sod houses due to the scarcity of timber. These shelters were built by stacking blocks of prairie soil (sod) to create walls and then adding a wooden frame and a roof.
3. Earth Lodges: Native American tribes like the Mandan and Hidatsa built earth lodges in the northern grasslands. These semi-subterranean dwellings were made by covering a wooden framework with earth and grass, providing excellent insulation for both heat and cold.
4. Dugouts: Dugouts were shelters often used by early settlers on the prairies, especially on the Great Plains. They were created by digging into a hillside and constructing a roof, either with wood or soil.
5. Ranching Structures: Modern-day shelters in the grasslands commonly include ranch and farmhouses for those involved in agricultural activities. These houses are typically built from wood or other durable materials and offer comfortable living spaces.
6. Yurts: In some grassland regions, yurt-like structures are used as dwellings. Yurts are circular felt tents covered in animal skins or cloth and supported by a wooden framework.
7. Campsites: Campgrounds and tent sites are popular shelters for visitors and nature enthusiasts who explore the grassland biome for recreational activities like camping and observing wildlife.
Additionally, there may be various contemporary types of shelters, such as cabins, cottages, or modern residences, depending on the location and development of a particular grassland area.