Jones and Longland looked at the effects of cattle grazing on the habitat selection of desert rodents in northwestern Nevada. The area within 300 meters of a water well was considered intense grazing, while lightly grazed areas were those found 3-5 km away. Overall, species richness was not significantly different between the two sites, but species composition did differ. The density of Merriam's kangaroo rat (Dipodomysmerriami) was significantly higher in the intensely grazed areas, while the density of the little pocket mouse (Perognathus longimembris) was significantly higher in the lightly grazed areas. Prior research has shown that kangaroo rats prefer more open areas of vegetation so that escape from predators is easier. Pocket mice need large clumps of productive bunchgrass for quality food as well as hiding cover. Jones and Longland found that mismanaged cattle grazing can lead to species turnover and large reductions in the rodent population. Proper management should result in a balance between cattle production and the desert rodent community.
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