This species lives in areas with xerophytic vegetation, in rocks areas along canyon sides, around stone walls and corrals near ranches, and in agricultural areas.

It uses burrows that are made in open ground at the base of a tree or bush, in rocky areas along small ravines, or under mesquite. This species is an omnivore, and the dried and black seeds of Crescentia are an important part of its diet, as well as the fruits of plum trees.This species may cause significant damage to cultivated crops, such as corn, beans, and sorghum. It is possible that this species has spread its range into the more arid habitats of the Mexican Plateau because of the large areas under cultivation (Best 1995).

Red List Category

Red List Criteria

Year Assessed

Assessor/s

Reviewer/s

Justification

History

• 1996
  Lower Risk/least concern

This species is common in suitable areas (Best 1995). Its population size varies from year to year and among seasons (Villa-R. 1943 in Best 1995).

Stable

There are no known major threats.

There are no specific conservation measures in place for this species. It is found in Pico Tancitaro National Park and a protected area near Infiernillo, Michoacan.