California mouse once thought extinct returns as 530 are reintroduced

 Conservationists have been working to revive the Pacific pocket mouse populations in Southern California since their rediscovery in 1993. Since 2006, more than 530 mice have been released into their native habitats through the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s efforts. The establishment of a third population in North San Mateo marks progress in their recovery. Additionally, genetic rescue efforts are being initiated to improve genetic diversity among the reintroduced populations. Conservationists have been working to revive the Pacific pocket mouse populations in Southern California since their rediscovery in 1993. Since 2006, more than 530 mice have been released into their native habitats through the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s efforts. The establishment of a third population in North San Mateo marks progress in their recovery. Additionally, genetic rescue efforts are being initiated to improve genetic diversity among the reintroduced populations.