Chiricahua Leopard Frog Management in Southern Arizona

Abstract

The Chiricahua leopard frog (Lithobates chiricahuensis, hereafter referred to as “CLF”) is a native frog in southern Arizona. The CLF range spans through central Arizona and south into the Altar Valley where it extends into Sonora, Mexico and east to the southwestern portion of New Mexico (1). This federally threatened species once existed in many cienegas, pools, lakes, streams, and reservoirs across southern and central Arizona. By 2011, CLF had disappeared from more than 80% of their historical locations in the U.S. (2). Their habitat is now largely limited to stock tanks, springs, and streams that are protected by local management and landowners from water loss and non-native predators such as bullfrogs. Solutions to these threats require creating and improving ideal habitat. Management approaches can be developed by investigating the factors that contribute to suitable habitat and understanding.