BLM-[AZ], Small Mammal Population Study, Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

The Mexican spotted owl (MSO) is a Threatened Species facing risk of extinction from loss of nest and foraging habitat due to human induced modifications to habitat and climate related changes to vegetation. The revised Mexican spotted owl recovery plan called for research investigating relationships among climate, habitat (e.g., vegetation trends), and primary spotted owl prey, including woodrats (Neotoma) and white-footed mice (Peromyscus). Recovery of spotted owls requires knowledge of habitat stability, including the prey resources needed to support owl populations in the Colorado Plateau Ecological Management Unit.