This cache is dedicated to the Richardson ground squirrel (Urocitellus richardsonii; RGS), which is also known as prairie dogs or gophers. RGS is one of 13 species of the genus Urocitellus. RGS are very common around the University of Lethbridge campus, across the prairies, and can be found from Manitoba in the East to the Rocky Mountains in the West, from South Dakota in the South to the central parts of Alberta in the north. The species was described scientifically by the British natural historian Joseph Sabine in 1822.
Being a hibernating species, RGS must make the most of the year, as they hibernate in their borrows from September until March. RGS is a social species that reproduces fast and spawns one litter of 6 pups per year (on average). As omnivores, RGS can easily adapt to new territories and survive the harsh climate of the prairies.
The species, although numerous, serves an important food source for multiple predatory species, including different species of birds of prey, snakes, and coyotes. The relationship of RGS with humans is complex. Sometimes considered as a pest, the population of RGS can expand quickly in the absence of predators. However, exterminating a local population is likely to not solve the issue, as a new population sooner or later will spread into the empty territory, especially if the borrows remains.
To solve this mystery, you need to find the answer A, B, C, and D. Some of the information can be found in the description, and some must be found online. The cache is NOT placed at the Mystery marker coordinates. Bring your own pen.
The placement of this cache has been approved by the Facilities at the University of Lethbridge.
Solve: 49° 40.9AB' N 112° 51.9CD' W
A: Number of recorded human fatalities following attacks by RGS.
B: The corresponding month-number at which RGS tend to wake up from hibernation.
C: Average number of pups per litter and year.
D: The year U. richardsonii was described scientifically, plus the age of Joseph Sabine when he died, divided by 377.6.
Congrats to marbles999 for FTF!