Mouse found in Colorado, Wyoming remains on protected list

The agency rejected a petition filed by homebuilders and ranchers who argued the Preble’s meadow jumping mouse shouldn’t be protected.

AP_LOGO_02
Preble's meadow jumping mouse (Zapus hudsonius preblei). Jan. 26, 2006. (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service/Wikimedia Commons)

Preble's meadow jumping mouse (Zapus hudsonius preblei). Jan. 26, 2006. (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service/Wikimedia Commons)

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service says a long-tailed mouse found only in Colorado and Wyoming will remain protected under the Endangered Species Act.

The agency on Monday rejected a petition filed by homebuilders and ranchers who argued the Preble’s meadow jumping mouse shouldn’t be protected. They said it isn’t a distinct subspecies but is essentially the same as other, more plentiful mice.

The agency says the petition didn’t include substantial evidence.

Pacific Legal Foundation, which filed the petition, says it’s disappointed.

The group says it will review the decision with its clients before deciding whether to challenge it in court.

The mouse was listed as threatened in 1998. Its identity has been disputed for years, prompting multiple legal challenges.

Opponents say the protections result in costly and unnecessary restrictions on land use.

Weird times

Denverite is powered by you. In these weird times, the local vigilance, the local context, the local flavor — it’s powered through your donations. If you’d miss Denverite if it disappeared tomorrow, donate today.

You’re our superpower

Denverite supporters have made the decision to financially support local journalism that matters to you. Ready to tell your networks why? Sharing our “About” page with your own personal comments could really help us out.

You’re our superpower

Denverite members have made the decision to financially support local journalism that matters to you. Ready to tell your networks why? Sharing our “About” page with your own personal comments could really help us out.