Enjoyed the previous threads on P ruthveni and P lodingi. The circumstances these species/subspecies face is more acute than melanoleucus or mugitus only because of their more limited ranges. Many of the same factors affecting ruthveni/lodingi impact the other eastern pine ssp-loss of habitat to the timber industry, citrus industry (in Florida), and residential development have had a big impact on their numbers. One can only speculate what impact non-native animals like armadillos, wild hogs, and fire ants have had on eggs and neonates of mugitus.
Remember, when you work with an eastern pit, you play a small role in the preservation of a dwindling species.
