| The Amargosa vole (Microtus californicus scirpensis) has one of the most restricted ranges of any mammal in North America. Although this species was largely ignored for decades, a population survey in 2010 revealed precariously low numbers remaining and raised concerns about population health. In response, a multiple-institution team accelerated the pace of science-driven recovery actions. A series of studies on the vole's distribution, genetics, demography, population dynamics, diet, habitat use, habitat condition, and disease are informing recovery decision making. Recovery actions include the creation of a refuge/captive breeding population, translocations and reintroductions, habitat creation and restoration, experimental field manipulations, and community engagement. For the short-term, periodic population monitoring continues to evaluate the impact and cost-effectiveness of different recovery actions. Longer-term, a range-wide habitat and population survey revealed that the entirety of the vole's unique marsh habitat is threatened by decreasing water availability associated with climate change, drought, and anthropogenic use. To ensure Amargosa vole conservation is sustainable, our near-term recovery actions must be embedded within a larger strategy to increase the resiliency of the Amargosa basin's unique habitats to changing climate and reduced water availability. |