Catalina Deer Mouse
Peromyscus slevini
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slevin's_mouse
Overview
Slevin's mouse, also known as the Catalina deermouse, is a species of rodent in the family Cricetidae. It is a species of the genus Peromyscus, a closely related group of New World mice often called "deermice". It is endemic to Isla Santa Catalina off the east coast of Baja California Sur, an island with an area of about 40 km2 (15 sq mi), and it is the only native mammal on the island. It is named for Joseph Slevin, a curator at the California Academy of Sciences.
Peromyscus slevini faces severe threats from its extremely restricted range on Catalina Island, making it vulnerable to catastrophic events and habitat degradation. Introduced species, particularly feral pigs and goats, have significantly altered the island's native vegetation structure and soil composition. Climate change poses additional risks through altered precipitation patterns and increased fire frequency, while the species' small population size makes it susceptible to genetic bottlenecks and demographic stochasticity.
Habitat
This endemic deer mouse inhabits the chaparral and oak woodland ecosystems of Santa Catalina Island off the California coast. It occupies areas with dense shrub cover and rocky outcrops, typically at elevations between sea level and 600 meters.
Other threatened species in CRICETIDAE
Threatened in Mexico
Frequently asked questions
Why is Catalina Deer Mouse classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Catalina Deer Mouse live?
What are the main threats to Catalina Deer Mouse?
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