| Understanding a species' range is fundamental to enacting effective management strategies. This is especially relevant when it comes to the protection and recovery of endangered species. The giant kangaroo rat (Dipodomys ingens) (GKR), an endangered keystone species endemic to California's central valley is an example of a species with a range in need of clarification. The currently accepted range map, drawn in 1992, covers the two largest GKR populations as well as some smaller populations that are not well studied. In the 25 years since this map was no one has formally assessed whether changes have occurred at the boundaries or investigated the status of potential populations at the center of the GRK range. This study assesses the current distribution for GKR, including areas that have so far received very little attention. These methods include surveys using satellite imagery, manned and unmanned flight surveys, non-invasive transect surveys and traditional live-trapping. This poster will feature the findings of each of these survey techniques and the range map that is created when they are combined. |