Data for Beach Mice Bayesian Network Model

This U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) data release represents tabular and geospatial data for the Biological Objectives for the Gulf Coast Project’s Beach Mice Bayesian network model. The data release was produced in compliance with 'open data' requirements as a way to make the scientific products associated with USGS research efforts and publications available to the public. The release consists of six items: 1. Bayesian network model that predicts the annual probability of beach mouse presence at a 30-m resolution in Florida coastal habitat (Tabular datasets) 2. Bayesian network model beach mice casefile (Tabular dataset) 3. Bayesian network model detection casefile (Tabular dataset) 4. Bayesian network model output of the 2009 annual probability of beach mouse presence at a 30-m resolution in Florida coastal habitat (Raster datasets) 5. Bayesian network model output of the 2010 annual probability of beach mouse presence at a 30-m resolution in Florida coastal habitat (Raster datasets) 6. Bayesian network model output of the 2011 annual probability of beach mouse presence at a 30-m resolution in Florida coastal habitat (Raster datasets) The USGS partnered with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and their conservation partners to develop a Bayesian Network model that predicts the annual probability of beach mouse presence at a local (30-m) scale. The model was used to predict the annual probability of presence across a portion of the USFWS's Central Gulf and Florida Panhandle Coast Biological Planning Unit. This spatial extent included critical habitat for three endangered subspecies of beach mice (Peromyscus polionotus ssp.). The annual probability of beach mouse presence is predicted from both local and neighborhood habitat characteristics that could be influenced by management actions. The model was created using a combination of expert elicitation, simplifying assumptions, literature-derived empirical values, and a beach mouse detection and nondetection survey. When coupled with established population objectives, this study can provide insight into how much habitat is available, how much more is needed, and where conservation or restoration efforts can most efficiently achieve established objectives. The results could be used to help guide strategic habitat conservation and adaptive management of beach mice.