Abstract

The objectives of this study were: (1) to make a detailed study of the distribution of the genus Parognathus in Utah; (2) to determine if any species or races not now recorded occur in the state; (3) to bring together notes on life histories of this genus, both from the literature and field studies; and (4) to determine habitat preferences of the species represented. This paper lists 14 subspecies belonging to 7 species of Perognathus occurring in Utah. One species is a new occurrence record, Perognathus fasciatus callistus, from northeastern Utah east of the Green River. The ranges of Perognathus longimembris, P. parvus, and P. formosus have been extended in Utah. Most of the pocket mice in Utah are found at an elevation of 6,000 feet or less. Perognathus parvus is the most widely distributed of any of the species and may be found at elevations as high as 10,000 feet. The other species appear to prefer special habitats. One group of P. parvus from the east slope of the Henry Mountains is believed to contain sufficient taxonomic traits to warrant separation into a new race. The reproductive cycle of the Utah species appears to be from April to July reaching its peak in June. There is little evidence that pocket mice have more than one litter per year. As a rule pocket mice are relatively free of ectoparasites. However, ticks, mites, lice, and fleas were taken from some of the Utah specimens.

Degree

College and Department

Life Sciences; Plant and Wildlife Sciences

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