Preble's Meadow Jumping Mouse

General information


These rare mice have extremely long tails and large hind feet and legs. They also:
  • Are primarily nocturnal but may be active during the day
  • Hibernate in September or October and do not emerge until May
  • Typically live in heavily vegetated riparian (streamside) habitats in Colorado and Wyoming
  • Have been located in Castle Rock in or near many drainageways, including tributaries and East Plum Creek, Cherry Creek and Sellars Gulch
  • Are eaten by many predators, including garter snakes, rattlesnakes, bullfrogs, coyotes, foxes, house cats, weasels, hawks and owls
  • View an informational brochure on Preble’s and Endangered Species Act regulations.
Preble's Meadow Jumping Mouse

Protection


The Preble’s Meadow Jumping Mouse is protected under the Endangered Species Act:
  • The Preble’s mouse has been designated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. This designation prohibits the unlawful disturbance / destruction of the Preble’s mouse or its habitat. Preble’s habitat can be found in portions of Colorado and Wyoming.
  • Any potential habitat within Castle Rock and Douglas County may be subject to the requirements of the Endangered Species Act. The Fish and Wildlife Service recommends sites below 7,600 feet within 300 feet of FEMA-designated 100-year floodplains be surveyed for the Preble’s mouse.

Additional information


For more information, call the Fish and Wildlife Service's Colorado Field Office, 303-236-4773.