Salt marsh harvest mice (Reithrodontomys raviventris; SMHM) are found in different wetland types throughout the San Francisco Estuary. The only demographic studies of the species have been restricted to a single region of the species range, Suisun Marsh, and largely during drought years. These studies of SMHM in paired tidal and managed wetlands had mixed results with regards to densities and demographics in the two wetland types. Subsequent high-intensity trapping efforts in recent years have allowed for an update of previous demographic analyses utilizing rangewide data across a diversity of rain years. In contrast to the largest previous demographic study, new analyses have revealed significant impacts of wetland type, competition, precipitation, and more. Across the species range populations in managed wetlands often reach much higher densities than tidal wetlands, but tend to be much less stable. Both western harvest mice (R. megalotis) and house mice (Mus musculus) densities impacted SMHM captures in areas where they were present. And precipitation frequency and magnitude significantly impacted all three species. These results highlight the complexity of the small mammal community in the Estuary as well as the importance of regular monitoring for accurately assessing SMHM occupancy and density in support of species recovery.

Katie Smith has been specializing in research on the salt marsh harvest mouse since 2008. While at the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for 10 years she completed her masters and PhD research, primarily working in tidal and managed wetlands in the Suisun Marsh. Upon completing her dissertation she came to work at WRA Environmental Consultants and has continued her work with the salt marsh harvest mouse, approaching conservation and management research for the species from a new direction. Katie also served on the Western Section board for a decade and now serves as the Diversity Chair for the San Francisco Bay Chapter.