First toad sighting in years.
Observation: We have not had any sighting of frogs for many years until this summer. This frog was approximately 3/4 inch in length with smaller ones spotted as well.
Alaska Herpetological Society Consult: (2016-09-17) Mark Spangler, Outreach Coordinator, M.Sc. Candidate, Biology and Wildlife writes, "This is a western toad (Anaxyrus boreas, formerly Bufo boreas). They have experienced dramatic declines in many parts of their range due to the chytrid fungus. Chytrid has been detected in southern Alaska. I cannot speak as to whether or not there were documented declines in this particular community and what role chytrid played. Marian perhaps is more knowledgeable about that. Thanks for providing a platform for people to share important observations such as this one!" (University of Alaska Fairbanks)
Media:
Alaska Fish & Wildlife News – Toads and Frogs in Trouble, "Frogs and toads are turning up in Alaska with shrunken hind legs, malformed lower jaws and the occasional extra limb, and biologists want to know why." By Riley Woodford, ADF&G (March 2006)
Alaska Fish & Wildlife News – Scientists Eye Alaska's Amphibians, "About 50 scientists recently gathered in Juneau to discuss issues facing Alaska’s amphibians, including the decline of Alaska’s toads and frogs. The First Statewide Conference on Alaska’s Amphibians, from March 30 to April 1, brought scientists together to coordinate research efforts and to share their knowledge about frogs, salamanders and toads in Alaska." By Riley Woodford, ADF&G (June 2004)
Resource:
Alaska Department of Fish & Game – Frogs and Toads. "Get involved in our Citizen Science wood frog program by participating in a wood frog survey, reporting your wood frog observation, or requesting an educational presentation. " Source: Wood Frog Monitoring Program
Observations From Members