Idaho Pocket Gopher
Thomomys idahoensis
T. idahoensis is one of the smaller species of Thomomys. Its coloration is generally pale, ranging from grayish-brown to buffy. The upper incisors have two distinct groov…
How to identify
T. idahoensis is one of the smaller species of Thomomys. Its coloration is generally pale, ranging from grayish-brown to buffy. The upper incisors have two distinct grooves. Cranial characteristics, particularly the shape and size of the skull and teeth, are essential for distinguishing this species. Total length can range from 180-230 mm.
Range
T. idahoensis is found in portions of eastern Idaho, southwestern Montana, western Wyoming, and northeastern Utah.
Habitat
T. idahoensis prefers well-drained soils in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, sagebrush steppe, and open woodlands. It is often found in areas with shallower, rockier soils than those preferred by some other Thomomys species.
Similar species
T. idahoensis can be confused with other Thomomys species, particularly Thomomys talpoides, in areas where their ranges overlap. Subtle differences in size, color, and cranial characteristics are important for distinguishing these species.
Name and etymology
Genus
Thomomys
Greek for mound (thomos) mouse (mys)
Origin
Sources
- Palmer, Index Generum Mammalium (1904) ↗
Palmer, T. S. 1904. Index Generum Mammalium: a list of the genera and families of mammals. North American Fauna 23. Government Printing Office, Washington. https://doi.org/10.5962/bhl.title.39809
Species epithet
idahoensis
Latin for of Idaho
Origin
Sources
- Wikipedia: Thomomys idahoensis ↗
“Thomomys idahoensis.” Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Idaho_pocket_gopher
- Wikipedia: Sylvilagus idahoensis ↗
“Sylvilagus idahoensis.” Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pygmy_rabbit
Explore more names in the etymology index.
At a glance
Range
T. idahoensis is found in portions of eastern Idaho, southwestern Montana, western Wyoming, and northeastern Utah.
Habitat
T. idahoensis prefers well-drained soils in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, sagebrush steppe, and open woodlands…
Guide
Mammals of North America
Range map
Approximate range. © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap