What do we need to continue protecting the Prebles meadow jumping mouse under the ESA?
From a conservation standpoint, the greatest news in the world would be that the Preble’s meadow jumping mouse is more abundant than previously thought, is not threatened with extinction, and can be removed from the list of threatened and endangered species. However, studies so far have overwhelmingly found the Preble’s to be a distinct creature that is now so rare it is in danger of extinction. In addition, threats to the Preble’s and its habitat continue to increase as uncontrolled sprawl consumes more open space, more streams, and more streamside habitat along the Front Range. Although genetic research is important, it alone cannot tell us if the Preble’s is or is not a unique subspecies. Scientists have already found the Preble’s to be one-of-a-kind in many different ways and deserves Endangered Species Act protection. Keeping the Preble’s meadow jumping mouse listed is also needed to ensure the health of our environment and our communities along Colorado’s Front Range and in south
