Conservation strategy for the Columbia spotted frog (Rana luteiventris) in Idaho

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The Columbia spotted frog, Rana luteiventris, occurs in four genetically distinguishable populations in northwestern North America. Idaho contains portions of two of these populations: the main population occurs north of the Snake River, and the Great Basin population (presently a candidate for federal listing) occurs in the Owyhee Mountains of southwestern Idaho. At present, the main population appears to be widespread and abundant, but the status of the Owyhee population is poorly known. There are a number of well-documented threats to Columbia spotted frogs: 1) habitat loss due to long-term impact of overgrazing, spring development, irrigation, loss of beavers, road construction, and urban and reservoir development; and 2) introduction of exotic species, fish and bullfrogs, which may prey upon or compete with spotted frogs. Other threats that may be important to Columbia spotted frogs include collection for the pet trade, exposure to contaminants such as pesticides and heavy metals, and increased ultraviolet radiation. The strategy for the Columbia spotted frog populations in southwestern Idaho (candidate status) should focus on 1) preserving, enhancing, and restoring habitat; 2) determining the current distribution and status of Columbia spotted frogs in southwestern Idaho using surveys and a monitoring program; and 3) protecting these frogs from collection and introduced species. We also need research to better understand threats to this population due to grazing, habitat fragmentation, and introduced species. Because there is less of a threat to the main population (north of the Snake River), actions for that population should focus on establishing a monitoring program to detect future declines, should they occur. Fish introductions and developments such as road construction should be conducted in ways that are not detrimental to Columbia spotted frogs.

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ELECTRONIC FILE - Zoology: Herps

SWAP (2/19/2016) citation [with brackets removed]:
Munger JC, Peterson CR, McDonald M, Carrigan T. 1997. Conservation strategy for the Columbia spotted frog (Rana luteiventris) in Idaho. Draft submitted to the Idaho State Conservation Effort. Unpublished report.

Generic citation: Munger, J. C., C. R. Peterson, M. McDonald, and T. Carrigan. 1997. Conservation strategy for the Columbia spotted frog (Rana luteiventris) in Idaho. Draft submitted to the Idaho State Conservation Effort. [12 p.]. Unpublished report.