The Mohave ground squirrel (Spermophilus mohavensis) is found only in the western Mojave Desert of California. Although it is listed as Threatened by the State of California, there is little published information regarding its current distribution and status. I have assembled a comprehensive database covering unpublished field studies, surveys, and incidental observations conducted over the 10-year period from 1998-2007. This database contains records of 1140 trapping sessions, only 102 of which were successful in capturing >1 Mohave ground squirrels. In addition, there are 96 incidental observations in which the species was detected. An analysis of these 198 positive records identifies 4 core areas that continue to support relatively abundant Mohave ground squirrel populations and 4 other areas in which there are multiple recent records of the species. Although the southern portion of the range has been most intensively sampled, the only recent occurrences there are from a single core population on Edwards Air Force Base plus an additional 4 detections from Victor Valley. There are extensive areas within the geographic range where the status of the species is unknown, especially on the China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station and Fort Irwin. I present recommendations for surveys in areas where no recent studies have been carried out. I also identify potential corridors between known populations and recommend studies to determine if these connections are actually occupied by the species. Finally, I indicate conservation measures needed to ensure that known populations and corridors are adequately protected from habitat loss and degradation.
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