INSIGHT INTO THE BIOLOGY, CAPTIVE MANAGEMENT, AND CONSERVATION OF THE ENDANGERED AMARGOSA VOLE (MICROTUS CALIFORNICUS SCIRPENSIS)

Nora E Allan; California Department of Fish and Wildlife; UC Davis; Nora.Allan@wildlife.ca.gov; Janet Foley, Deana Clifford, Risa Pesapane

The Amargosa vole (Microtus californicus scirpensis) is a highly endangered rodent endemic to small patches of marsh habitat near Tecopa in Inyo County, California. Although it has survived in a naturally fragmented ecosystem for thousands of years, climate change and upstream overuse have reduced habitat and further isolated the species. Evidence suggests only 500 individuals still exist in the wild. As part of a multi-party conservation effort to recover the species, we established a captive breeding population in 2014 to serve as an insurance colony, increase our knowledge about Amargosa vole biology, and provide individuals for release as restored habitat becomes available. Captive animals help answer questions about biology and behavior that are challenging to investigate in the wild. Tracking development benchmarks provides a guide for accurately aging wild-caught individuals. Observations about aggression inform decisions during captive-release attempts. Identifying common diseases determines whether Amargosa voles may be more susceptible to certain pathogens. Investigating dietary preferences and gut microbiomes help determine what resources are necessary for vole growth and survival. By conducting applied research in captivity, we can continuously improve our captive management and use our insights from the colony to benefit in situ Amargosa vole conservation efforts.

Endangered Species Recovery