Endangered Species Status for the Sierra Nevada Distinct Population Segment of the Sierra Nevada Red Fox

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), determine endangered species status under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (Act), as amended, for the Sierra Nevada Distinct Population Segment (DPS) of the Sierra Nevada red fox (Vulpes vulpes necator) (hereafter referred to in this rule as the Sierra Nevada DPS). The Sierra Nevada red fox is a small mammal occurring in California and Oregon, with the Sierra Nevada DPS of this broader taxon inhabiting the highest elevations of the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California. This rule adds the Sierra Nevada DPS of Sierra Nevada red fox to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife.