Following these informative studies, USGS researchers collaborated with a scientific panel to design a relatively simple, multi-scaled, habitat-based, adaptive monitoring program for Pacific pocket mouse on Camp Pendleton. Studies included live-trapping, canine scent detection, and newly developed track tubes. Several pilot studies were carried out by USGS to determine the best sampling methodology to meet program goals and objectives.
In 2007, the USGS was contracted to develop a scientifically valid and cost-effective monitoring program for the Pacific pocket mouse on Camp Pendleton to help fulfill stewardship and regulatory requirements for the natural resources on Base. Potential threats and stressors include habitat loss, habitat alteration, fragmentation, predation risks, competition for seed resources, and impacts from vibrations, noise, and artificial lighting. There are currently only three known extant populations, one on Dana Point and the two largest on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. They were believed to be extinct in 1972, but were rediscovered in 1993, and federally listed as endangered in 1994. The Pacific pocket mouse has historically occupied marine terraces and alluvial plains along the southern California coast and has been typically associated with open patches of sandy soils. They exhibit typical behaviors of heteromyid rodents including sand bathing to keep pelage clean and healthy, collecting seeds in external cheek pouches, and caching of seeds below ground and within burrow systems for sustenance throughout the year. The Pacific pocket mouse is one of 19 subspecies of the little pocket mice in the Heteromyid family and weighs an average of only 6 grams (0.04 oz). This video shows a Pacific pocket mouse (Perognathus longimembris pacificus) sandbathing at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton in 2015.
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