Beach Mice and Human Disturbance
Beach mice inhabit
coastal dunes in the panhandle and along the Atlantic coast of
Florida. Development of coastal areas has caused a loss of habitat
for beach mice and other plants and animals that live in the dunes.
Due to this loss of habitat, five of the six subspecies of beach
mice found in Florida are state and federally listed as either
endangered or threatened. Human activities such as walking in
dunes, bringing pets into the dunes, and removing native vegetation
also lead to the loss of habitat and the fragmentation of remaining
habitat. Not only does protecting the dunes help to protect beach
mice, it also protects the people and structures near the coasts
from the effects of hurricanes. See where
beach mice are found in Florida.
Eight things you can do to help beach
mice
- Avoid walking in dunes. Use crosswalks and boardwalks.
- Do not drive in dunes or on the upper beach near dunes and dune
vegetation.
- Keep pets out of dunes. Keep dogs on leashes and cats
indoors.
- Do not feed stray cats.
- Properly dispose of trash to keep predators away.
- Keep outdoor lighting to a minimum.
- Don't use rodenticides in coastal dunes.
- Plant native plants around residences and businesses.
More information can be found at:
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