The distribution, ecology and current status of Pseudomys desertor in South Australia

Abstract

Recent surveys have shown that the desert mouse (Pseudomys desertor), which was once considered to be rare in South Australia, is relatively widespread throughout the north-west of the State. However, historical localities in the Flinders Ranges and Nullarbor Plain were not matched with contemporary records, suggesting a range contraction to the central desert regions. Habitat preferences were determined from 78 captures at 41 sites, which revealed that samphire, sedge and nitrebush habitats, along with spinifex grassland, were favoured. A high tolerance to high rabbit numbers, mining activity, moderate cattle grazing pressures and cohabitation with Mus domesticus was evident.

Pseudomys desertor is sometimes diurnal, possibly as a result of the time-consuming and regular foraging requirements of its folivorous diet. High mortality rates, resulting from prolonged exposure to predators, and lack of complex deep burrow systems are offset by its high fecundity and ecological plasticity. We consider that P. desertor is secure in the north-western arid zone of South Australia.