Amphibians and Reptiles

Amphibians and reptiles (collectively, herpetofauna) may provide insights into general ecosystem health due to their close association with various habitats and sensitivity to different environmental stresses. As part of the global biodiversity crisis, declines of amphibians and reptiles have been documented in many places, including the western U.S., often in relatively undisturbed habitats. Although habitat destruction and alteration are major causes of declines, other stressors are also known to contribute to declines of herpetofauna, including disease, climate change, introduced species (especially bullfrogs and fish in the West), contaminants, or a variety of these and other factors acting in combination.

NoRock scientists study the status of amphibian and reptile populations and the factors causing changes in distribution and abundance. They have also been active in developing better techniques to sample these species. Study animals include Federally listed species (Desert Tortoise) and species in serious decline in parts of the Rocky Mountains (Boreal Toad), but also include species that are still common and abundant, in the hope of detecting declines before they threaten survival.

Current Projects

• Amphibian Research and Monitoring Initiative (ARMI)
• Desert Tortoise Research

Photo credits:
Boreal toad (Blake Hossack)
Desert tortoise, Long-toed salamander, and snake (Stephen Corn)

Return to Science