?The Vanishing Frog? hosted by Jeff Corwin will air tonight, November 20 at 8pm.
Mood:  special
Topic: Media

---

Here is a letter I received from Liz Conant about the Animal Planet/Clorox movie and their t-shirts raising money to help Amphibian Ark, and a great gift idea!

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Hi Wendell,
 
In September, we contacted you with information about an upcoming documentary on Animal Planet about the decline in the global amphibian population and you were kind enough to post the information on your Frog blog. I wanted to remind you and your blog readers that “The Vanishing Frog”  hosted by Jeff Corwin will air tonight, November 20 at 8pm.
 
Another way that your readers can support this worthy cause is by purchasing a Save the Frogs youth T-shirt for only $10 at www.savethefrog.com. For every T-shirt purchased, $4 will be donated to Amphibian Ark, a program created to rescue the most endangered amphibian species that cannot be saved in the wild.  The remaining $6 covers the cost of the T-shirt. T-shirts are available in youth sizes small (6-8), medium (10-12) and large (14-16). 
 
Amphibians are facing the largest possible extinction since the disappearance of dinosaurs.  One-third to one-half of the planet’s 6,000 amphibian species – which have thrived on earth for 360 million years – are in danger of extinction. 
 
To learn more about the amphibian extinction crisis and to purchase a limited-edition Save the Frogs T-shirt, visit www.savethefrog.com.

New Frog Documentary from Ravenswood Media
Mood:  special
Topic: Media

Why Frogs Call and Why We Should Listen

This DVD contains 80 minutes of material on the natural history, behavior and the role of frogs in the environment. The DVD offers:

The Documentary-"Why Frogs Call and Why We Should Listen." Narrated by seven renowned biologists who share their expertise on frogs. The filmmakers spent several years tracking down calling frogs in swamps, fens and ephemeral ponds.

Caroline Aguti - African frogs Karen Glennemeier – Frog surveys Val Beasley – Frog declines
Michael Lannoo – Frog malformations Robert Brodman- Wetland diversity

Anne Maglia- Fossil frogs. Carl Gerhardt – Why frogs call

30 Videos from the website, www.midwestfrogs.com , arranged by species and subject matter. The clips provide a fast and easy reference to frog calls by putting a face to the voice.

Range Maps of the frogs featured in the documentary. Courtesy of the United States Geological Survey. Price $20.00 plus $4.95 shipping and handling.

To see video clips or to order go to www.midwestfrogs.com

also available Caves: Life Beneath the Forest Floor www.cavebiota.com

Now that Old MacDonald isn't controlling the farm any more, Things looking up for Twain's Famous Frog
Mood:  a-ok
Topic: Articles
NEWS RELEASE
The Center for North American Herpetology
Lawrence, Kansas
http://www.cnah.org
1 October 2008

PROPOSAL TO INCREASE CRITICAL HABITAT AREA FOUR-FOLD
FOR CALIFORNIA RED-LEGGED FROG
1.3 Million Acres May Regain Protection after Investigation into Interior Department
Scandals, Citizen Lawsuit

Sacramento, California – Under scrutiny for political corruption regarding numerous
endangered species decisions and facing a lawsuit over improper tampering with
protected critical habitat, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing to restore
significant areas of critical habitat for the California Red-legged Frog (Rana draytonii). The
Service today proposed quadrupling the protected areas by designating approximately
1,804,865 acres of critical habitat for the frog in 28 California counties.

"No endangered species can survive without its habitat intact, and the Red-legged Frog
desperately needs protection of adequate wetlands habitat throughout its former range,"
said Jeff Miller, conservation advocate with the Center for Biological Diversity. "Today's
proposal is step toward biological meaningful protections for the frog, but unfortunately
numerous other endangered species still have inadequate habitat protections because
bureaucrats have illegally slashed millions of acres from proposals by agency scientists."

In November 2007, under pressure brought about by the Center and the media
highlighting Interior Department corruption, the Service announced the reversal of six
illegal Endangered Species Act decisions, including the California Red-legged Frog’s 2006
critical habitat designation. The Service listed the Red-legged Frog as a threatened species
in 1996. It published a proposed rule to designate 4,138,064 acres of critical habitat in
2004. In response to a lawsuit by developers, the Service revised the proposal in 2005 to
only 737,912 acres, and finalized the rule in 2006 with just 450,288 acres - a reduction of
90 percent from the original proposed rule. Today’s proposal would increase the critical
habitat by approximately 1,354,577 acres.

"Even with the announced increase in acreage, the Red-legged Frog will receive habitat
protection for less than half the areas that agency biologists have identified as essential
for the recovery of the species," said Miller. "Under the Bush administration, the Fish and
Wildlife Service has consistently slashed the size of proposed critical habitats, so we will
be watching the final designation closely."

In 2007 the Center for Biological Diversity and other groups filed lawsuits challenging the
Service’s refusal to properly designate and protect critical habitat areas for 19 endangered
species, including the California Red-legged Frog. The suits are part of a broader effort by
the Center to challenge political corruption harming 55 endangered species and over 8.5
million acres of wildlife habitat. Many of the flawed critical habitat decisions were
engineered by Julie MacDonald, the disgraced former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Interior
who resigned in 2007 following a scathing report by the Inspector General and
investigations into political meddling in scientific decisions by MacDonald and other high
level officials in the Department of Interior and the Fish and Wildlife Service.

In a 2007 regional review of endangered species decisions potentially tainted by
Macdonald, the California/Nevada Operations office of the Service declared that the Red-
legged Frog critical habitat decision was invalid and should be redone. Director Dale Hall,
in a memo to Assistant Secretary of Interior Lynn Scarlett confirmed the frog as one of the
decisions “that should be re-evaluated.”

The Service cited a biased and controversial economic analysis as justification for cutting
the original habitat designation for the frog from 4.1 million acres to 450,000 acres, a
reduction of 90 percent. From 2000 to 2003 the Service shrunk the size of proposed
critical habitats for species on average by 75 percent. The Service is contemplating
excluding areas from the final rule for the frog based on a planned revision of the
economic analysis, and may exclude other areas based on supposed conservation
measures in place to protect the species.

Critical habitat can be the most effective tool for recovering species beyond listing under
the Endangered Species Act. A scientific study published in BioScience in 2005 showed
that endangered species with critical habitat are twice as likely to recover as species that
do not have critical habitat designated.

Made famous in the Mark Twain story, The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County,
the California Red-legged Frog has lost more than 70 percent of its historic habitat. Frog
populations have declined due to habitat loss from urbanization and introduction of exotic
species such as Bullfrogs. The Red-legged Frog is believed to be extinct in the Central
Valley and is extirpated from 99 percent of its Sierra Nevada range. Currently, the
strongest breeding populations remaining are found along the coast from San Mateo to
San Luis Obispo counties.

The Red-legged Frog prefers ponds, marshes and creeks with still water. It requires
riparian and upland areas with dense vegetation and open areas for cover, aestivation
(summertime hibernation), food and basking. Undisturbed riparian vegetation is also
necessary for female frogs to attach their egg masses, which float on the water surface
until hatched (5-7 months).

The proposal includes 49 units of critical habitat for the frog in Alameda, Butte, Calaveras,
Contra Costa, El Dorado, Kern, Kings, Los Angeles, Marin, Mendocino, Merced, Monterey,
Napa, Nevada, Placer, Riverside, San Benito, San Joaquin, San Luis Obispo, San Mateo,
Santa Barbara, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Solano, Sonoma, Stanislaus, Ventura, and Yuba
Counties.

Background information on the red-legged frog can be found on the Center for Biological
Diversity Web site at:

http://www.biologicaldiversity.org/species/amphibians/California_red-legged_frog/
index.html

Background information on political interference with endangered species decisions by
Fish and Wildlife Service bureaucrats can be found at:

http://www.biologicaldiversity.org/campaigns/watchfrogging_political_corruption/
index.html

Today's Federal Register notice on the revised critical habitat is at:

http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2008/pdf/E8-20473.pdf

The Center for Biological Diversity is a nonprofit conservation organization with 180,000
members and online activists, dedicated to the protection of endangered species and wild
places.

Contacts:

Jeff Miller, Center for Biological Diversity (510) 499-9185
Peter Galvin, Center for Biological Diversity (707) 986-2600

Center for Biological Diversity
351 California Street, Suite 600
San Francisco, California 94104
Phone: (415) 436-9682 x303
Fax: (415) 436-9683
Web site: www.biologicaldiversity.org

The Center for Biological Diversity works through science, law, and media to secure a
future for all species, great or small, hovering on the brink of extinction.

Posted by wendellsfrogblog at 2:39 PM EDT

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Chytrid now Killing Midwife Toads in Spain
Mood:  don't ask
Topic: Articles

A fungus is threatening midwife toads in Majorca because of captive breeding.

They say the road to hell is paved with good intentions, I wonder if this is not one of those circumstances. Captive breeding is the way we will save the world's amphibians. It is sad that something like this happens from such a noble cause. It reminds me of the Kihansa Spray Toad of South Central Tanzania. This toad had a very small habitat that was taken for use for a hydro-electric plant. Then the scientists that went in to save the last of them took in Chytrid on their boots. While swift action is needed to save the world's amphibians, careful planning and propper precautions are also needed.

Amphibian Specialist wanted at Atlanta Botanical Garden
Mood:  sharp
Topic: Places to go

AZA Job Listings

Amphibian Specialist           
Organization: Atlanta Botanical Garden         
Location: Atlanta, Ga.         
Date: Sep 24, 2008             
               
www.atlantabotanicalgarden.org

The Atlanta Botanical Garden, located in midtown Atlanta, GA, needs a talented, energetic and knowledgeable Amphibian Specialist to work with the garden’s world-renowned amphibian collection. The Atlanta Botanical Garden began its amphibian program in 1993 and currently houses multiple educational exhibits featuring frogs as well as maintains a large and very diverse off-exhibit collection for conservation purposes. The candidate must be dependable, friendly and a self-starter and should be proficient with and competent in husbandry, capture and restraint, propagation, nutrition and proper record keeping of a large collection. There may be some field and travel required for this position. No relocation assistance is available for this position.
The Amphibian Specialist will:

• Observe general animal health and behavior and report any abnormal situations to the Lead Amphibian Specialist and/or Amphibian Conservation Scientist.

• Be responsible for general care and feeding of the collection as well as exhibit and records upkeep. Minimum of two years experience in amphibian, reptile, and/or aquatics husbandry is required.

• Be willing to work outdoors in all weather conditions.

• Work a schedule that includes weekends and holidays for proper care of collection.

• Be able to lift heavy objects (up to 60 pounds).

• Have good communication, presentation, and organizational skills, as well as work in a team environment.

• Have a degree in biology or zoology or equivalent, plus 2 years experience working with amphibians, aquaculture or related area.

Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to: jobs@atlantabotanicalgarden.org with the subject line - Amphibian Specialist. No phone calls please.          

Association of Zoos and Aquariums

New Series on PBS~The Natural Heritage of Indiana
Mood:  sharp
Topic: Media

What a great surprise! I have to tell you that I am behind the times, no cable or satellite, actually I am probably one of the few that the change in Feb will effect. Anyway, I was channel flipping and found a wonderful documentary on PBS about the Indiana That Was. I only caught the last half, but it was awesome! It is part of a new series to be shown at 7pm on Sundays. They will be covering different aspects of Indiana's Natural History, in the previews, it showed salamander eggs and larvae. I am really excited about it. Hopefully, the series will be put out on DVD at some point. Look it up at http://www.wfyi.org/naturalheritageindiana.asp

It originally aired in 2007, but I didn't know about it until tonight. If you saw it, let me know what you thought.

Clorox and Amphibian Ark website www.savethefrog.com
Mood:  special
Topic: Media

I wanted to share a wonderful email I received about the efforts being made in the name of amphibian conservation.

---

 

Hi Wendell!

As someone passionate about amphibians, I wanted to introduce you to a resource that may be of interest to you and your readers. The Clorox Company is part of the effort to raise awareness and funding needed to mitigate the amphibian extinction crisis. In partnership with nonprofit group Amphibian Ark (which I see you have on your blogroll and have written about in the past), Clorox created Savethefrog.com. The site includes:

· Video from experts in the industry, such as Amphibian Ark Program Officer Kevin Zippel and biologist Jeff Corwin

· Field reports from Animal Planet’s Jeff Corwin as he travels around the globe filming “The Vanishing Frog,” a new documentary project produced by Discovery Studios and made possible in partnership with The Clorox Company

· Beautiful photos of amphibians in their natural habitat · Information about significant conservation efforts in El Valle, Panama

· Information about how people can help in the effort to rescue amphibians

· And much more

 

How Clorox Helps

Clorox joined Amphibian Ark as the first official corporate sponsor, donating funds as well as its Regular-Bleach product to aid in the halt of the spread of chytrid fungus, a parasitic fungus deadly to hundreds of species and creating one of the most immediate causes of amphibian decline. Bleach, an EPA-registered fungicide, is one of the most important tools in Amphibian Ark’s fight to save the frogs, but more help is needed to save these important animals.

I hope that we can work together in raising awareness about this crisis and that you would consider using savethefrog.com as a resource for future postings or even adding it to your blogroll. And, if you would like any additional information about the content found on savethefrog.com, have any questions or would like to use any of the photos, please don’t hesitate to ask.

Thanks in advance for your time and consideration!

 Kindly,

Julie Fleishman-Hillard, On behalf of The Clorox Company’s effort to save the frog

---

Be sure to check out this terrific website. It's in the links column at the right for future reference. www.savethefrog.com

Herping at Brown County State Park
Mood:  energetic
Topic: Out in the Field

Its been a while since I made it out in the field, it felt great to get out, and what a terrific day! My family (Me, Peggy, Taylor, Dylan and Kadison) met up with other Hoosier Herpetological Society members "Snakehead Ed" Ferrer, Roger Carter, Barry Hammer and Rick Marrs and the DNR Natralist at the Brown County State Park Nature Center. While waiting for others to arrive, we looked around the Nature Center as well as on the viewing deck behind it. What a breathtaking view! Rolling hills with fog rising up and the sun just peaking through. Inside the Nature Center, there was fantastic displays of live herps. Copperhead, Timber Rattler, Hognose, Black Rat Snake and a Spiny Softshell turtle. Before the others had even arrived, Brittany Davis, the Interpretive Naturalist to lead our hike was called to a snake in the road. Sadly, it was a very large male copperhead that had been hit by a car. She started off the day by showing us the gravid copperheads she had collected for research and the neonates. One brood was one day old, born during a program the previous day. The other eight days old, eating and to be released later. Then we ventured out to a trail and soon found our first live wild copperhead of the day. After pictures, we ventured to a small "wildlife pond". Apparently 100 of these were constructed at the park and many have still not been marked. We saw green frogs, Kadison found a wood frog metamorph, and a northern watersnake. My son Taylor spotted a slimy salamander over 5 feet up a tree! Slimy Salamanders are rarely seen during the day in the open, and I have found no literature about them ever being found up a tree. This tree was vertical, not a slanting tree. Along the trail, we also saw an adult wood frog that Dylan spotted, and an Eastern Box Turtle.  A five lined skink was also observed, a young one with the bright blue tail. Sadly, I forgot the spare batteries, so the camera only lasted about half way throught he trail. At the next location we drove to, another watersnake, a box turtle shell and several green frogs and a large bullfrog. On the road to the next spot was a beautiful box turtle. A couple of northern fence lizards were also seen, one caught by Barry, and Dylan carried it around to show everyone for pictures.  Britanny showed us many edible plants as well. We saw many interesting catapillars and colorful fungus. We also saw one other copperhead and several toads (both American and Fowlers) and another five lined skink. One of the Fowler's toads was captured for a last supper for the captive hognose in the Nature center before its release. It made no haste in swallowing this large toad. A rat was also fed to the Timber Rattlesnake, and while I left before it was consumed, there should be some good video of this by HHS members Rick Marrs and Barry Hammer. It was a wonderful day, the rain that was supposed to be there held off for a day and the temps were not too hot, though for an out of shape guy like me, that was still a lot of hiking. Thanks to Brittany and to the BCSP for a great day! 

 

Herp Faculty Positions at Richmond
Mood:  sharp
Topic: Places to go

NEWS RELEASE
The Center for North American Herpetology
Lawrence, Kansas
http://www.cnah.org
16 September 2008

University of Richmond Minority Postdoctoral Position
ANURAN SYSTEMATIST

A campus-wide minority postdoctoral fellow program was recently established at the
University of Richmond, School of Arts and Sciences. We are trying to recruit a researcher
to contribute to an ongoing program on molecular systematics and phylogeography of
neotropical anurans. This position would be particularly attractive to someone considering
a job at a primarily undergraduate institution. The position has an expectation that
approximately 75%
effort would be placed on research, but meaningful teaching experiences would be
acquired at a top tier liberal arts college. The ideal candidate will have strengths in one or
more of the following areas: molecular systematics, phylogenetics, phylogeography and
biogeography. The post-doc would interact and collaborate with Rafael O. de Sá, who is
committed to providing strong mentorship in all aspects of the post-docs professional
development. Interested
parties should contact him (see below). For more information about the University of
Richmond Biology Department, see the web site shown below.

University of Richmond Tenure Track Faculty Position
EVOLUTIONARY FIELD ECOLOGIST

The Department of Biology at the University of Richmond invites applications for a tenure-
track position at the Assistant Professor level to join a growing department and to
strengthen our expertise and course offerings at the interface of ecology and evolution.
Individuals working with vertebrates (particularly amphibians, reptiles, turtle, and/or
crocodilians), plants, or plant-animal interactions are strongly encouraged to apply.
Successful applicants must have a field research program that will actively engage
undergraduates. Teaching expectations include participation in the introductory biology
curriculum (100 and 200 levels) and upper electives in the successful applicant's area of
expertise. A doctoral degree and a record of research productivity are required. Applicants
should submit: (1) a curriculum vitae, (2) up to three recent publications, (3) separate
statements of (a) teaching philosophy and experience and (b) research interests and plans,
and (4) 3 letters of recommendation to Rafael O. de Sá (see below). Review of applications
will begin 17 October 2008, with an anticipated starting date of August 2009. For more
information about the University of Richmond Biology Department, see the web site shown
below.

Dr. Rafael O. de Sá
Department of Biology
University of Richmond
Richmond, Virginia 23173
rdesa@richmond.edu
http://biology.richmond.edu/

*****

The University of Richmond, a private and primarily undergraduate university, is
committed to increasing the diversity of our faculty and strongly encourages applications
from minorities and women. The University has a policy of non-discrimination with regard
to race, religion, national or ethnic origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability, status as
a veteran or any classification protected by local, state or federal law. It is the intent of the
University's employment and personnel practices to conform with all applicable federal,
state and local laws and regulations regarding non-discrimination. It is the obligation of
each Employee of the University in his/her area of responsibility to adhere to this policy.

Reptile Days at the Indiana State Museum (amphibians too!)
Mood:  sharp
Topic: Places to go

Click the picture for info!

 

Welcome back to the Indiana State Museum for our annual reptile event. This weekend event will offer even more opportunities to get up close and personal with a variety of critters as well as the opportunity to have a photo taken with your favorite reptile, snake, or amphibian. Join the Hoosier Herpetological Society, "Snakehead Ed" Ferrer and others and meet with Department of Natural Resources and Indy Parks representatives who will be on hand to discuss native species and their populations in Indiana.

Wednesdays in the Wild~Fantabulous Frogs and other Amazing Amphibians
Mood:  sharp
Topic: Places to go

Amphibian Disease Ecology position in Zurich
Mood:  special
Topic: Places to go
NEWS RELEASE
The Center for North American Herpetology
Lawrence, Kansas
http://www.cnah.org
24 July 2008

University of Zürich Institute of Zoology invites applications for a

PHD POSITION IN DISEASE ECOLOGY

The successful candidate is expected to further develop a new research project on

The interaction of symbiotic microbiota and innate immune defenses of amphibians

The project will focus on amphibian host-pathogen interactions with particular emphasis
on the amphibian chytrid fungus, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis. The project will
combine field sampling of Swiss amphibians for microbial diversity with laboratory
experiments and analyses of innate immune defenses. This work will include molecular
analyses in the lab. The final stage of the project will include semi-natural mesocosm
experiments to explore the potential of microbial bioaugmentation as a conservation
management strategy.

Applicants should have some knowledge in at least one of the following areas:
microbiology, population or community ecology, immunology. Familiarity with field work
on amphibians, lab techniques (PCR, bacterial isolation), experimental design and
statistics would be advantageous. Possession of a driving license and good knowledge of
the English language are mandatory.

The position begins 1 October 2008 and extends for a period of 3 years. Salary follows
standards of the SNF and Kanton Zurich. If you are interested, please send your CV with
list of publications, two letters of reference, and a cover letter summarizing your research
interests and relevant experience by 20 August 2008 to

Dr. Douglas C. Woodhams
Zoological Institute
University of Zurich
Winterthurerstrasse 190
CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland

Tel: ++41 (1) 635 4982
Fax: ++41 (1) 635 6821
dwoodhams@gmail.com
http://savethefrogs.com/who_we_are/doug_woodhams.html

Further information on our lab and institute is available at

http://www.unizh.ch/zool>www.unizh.ch/zool

Sagefrog Marketing Partners with Conservation Group to Save Frogs
Mood:  special
Topic: Articles
Sagefrog Donates Services to Amphibian Ark to Promote the “Year of the Frog”

DOYLESTOWN, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sagefrog Marketing Group, LLC, of Doylestown PA, will implement an integrated marketing and public relations program for Amphibian Ark. Amphibian Ark is dedicated to saving amphibians worldwide, many of which are facing rapid extinction. Without immediate captive management as a stopgap component of an integrated conservation effort, hundreds of species could become extinct.

Sagefrog will collaborate with Amphibian Ark to increase understanding of the 2008 “Year of the Frog” campaign – raising awareness of the amphibian crisis, and, most important, the urgent need to generate funds to execute the emergency response captive breeding phase of the program, ultimately helping to ensure amphibians’ long-term survival.

The “Year of the Frog” campaign will feature celebrities including Jean-Michel Cousteau, Sir David Attenborough, Jeff Corwin and even Kermit the Frog who are working with thousands of zoos, aquaria and conservation organizations to support Amphibian Ark in rallying the planet to avert this mass extinction.

Sagefrog’s pro bono services are a direct result of its strong connection to the cause and belief in what Amphibian Ark is working to accomplish by providing marketing and public relations services. Mark Schmukler, managing partner at Sagefrog Marketing states, “Partnering with Amphibian Ark was an easy choice for us. Evident by our name, we share a special affinity for frogs, and donating our marketing and PR services is the best way for us to help. The dedication of all involved is truly inspiring and we are glad to be a part of it.”

Sagefrog has also done charitable work with Simple Works, an organization funding high impact and easily monitored projects aimed at children, and ABO Haven, a provider of education, training and job skills designed for people who may be unemployed or underemployed.

Sagefrog’s high-profile clientele includes Defibtech, GlaxoSmithKline, Microsoft, PharmaPros, SAP America, and Johnson & Johnson.

For more information on Amphibian Ark and the 2008 “Year of the Frog” campaign, please contact Chelsea Cercone at info@sagefrog.com or visit Amphibian Ark’s website at http://www.amphibianark.org.

About the amphibian crisis and Amphibian Ark

From one-third to one-half of the planet’s 6,000 amphibian species – frogs and toads, salamanders and newts, and caecilians, which have thrived for 360 million years – are in danger of extinction. To mitigate this crisis, the world’s leading conservationists have joined together to name 2008 “The Year of the Frog” in hopes of raising both awareness and the critical funding needed to address the crisis. Amphibians are often called “the world’s canaries in the coal mine,” and when hundreds of species are in decline it serves as a global warning to other species.

Amphibian Ark, part of the Global Conservation Network, a 501(c)3 organization, develops, promotes, and guides short-term captive management of the most threatened amphibians. Amphibian Ark’s work makes possible the long-term survival of species for which adequate protection in the wild is not currently possible.

About Sagefrog Marketing Group, LLC

Sagefrog Marketing Group, LLC is a full and integrated marketing, interactive and public relations agency located in Doylestown, Pa. The firm specializes in serving health, technology and service companies in the Greater Philadelphia and New Jersey area. Established in 2001, Sagefrog Marketing Group combines a strategic, creative and process driven approach to achieve optimal results. For additional information about Sagefrog, please visit http://www.sagefrog.com

Contacts
Sagefrog Marketing Group
Chelsea Cercone, 215-230-9024
info@sagefrog.com

2008 NEPARC early registration ends Thursday July 10!?
Mood:  sharp
Topic: Places to go

Note - Early registration is ending July 10th (this Thursday).

There is still some free student housing available.

2008 Northeast Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (NEPARC) meeting

Date and Location: The meeting will be held August 13-15 at the Powder Mill Nature Preserve in Rector, PA.

Low Registration Costs:

Student early registration: $60*

Regular early registration: $75*

Student registration: $75

Regular registration: $100

*Early registration ends July 10th

Great presentations on a variety of topics - See agenda for more information

- Free on site housing for 1st 15 students!

- Poster Session

- Student Cash Prize Drawing - Students contributing a poster will be eligible for a cash prize

- Silent Auction - Attendees are encouraged to bring items for the silent auction

- Working group breakout sessions to prioritize and implement actions for reptile and amphibian conservation in the Northeast.

Meeting information, including registration and agenda are now available on the NEPARC website (www.pwrc.usgs.gov/neparc/Meetings/index.htm ). To register on line, http://www.regonline.com/neparc.

We hope to see you there! 

- Holly Niederriter and J.D. Kleopfer (Northeast co-chairs)

What's in a name? Would a Cricket Frog by any other name...
Mood:  quizzical
Topic: Articles
NEWS RELEASE
The Center for North American Herpetology
Lawrence, Kansas
http://www.cnah.org
30 June 2008

SPECIES LIMITS AND PHYLOGEOGRAPHY OF NORTH AMERICAN CRICKET FROGS (ACRIS:
HYLIDAE)

Tony Gamble, Peter B. Berendzen, H. Bradley Shaffer, David E. Starkey, Andrew M. Simons

2008. Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution 48: 112–125

Abstract: Cricket Frogs are widely distributed across the eastern United States and two
species, the Northern Cricket Frog (Acris crepitans) and the Southern Cricket Frog (A.
gryllus) are currently recognized. We generated a phylogenetic hypothesis for Acris using
fragments of nuclear and mitochondrial genes in separate and combined phylogenetic
analyses. We also used distance methods and fixation indices to evaluate species limits
within the genus and the validity of currently recognized subspecies of A. crepitans. The
distributions of existing A. crepitans subspecies, defined by morphology and call types, do
not match the distributions of evolutionary lineages recovered using our genetic data. We
discuss a scenario of call evolution to explain this disparity. We also recovered distinct
phylogeographic groups within A. crepitans and A. gryllus that are congruent with other
codistributed taxa. Under a lineage-based species concept, we recognize Acris blanchardi
as a distinct species. The importance of this revised taxonomy is discussed in light of the
dramatic declines in A. blanchardi across the northern and western portions of its range.

*****

CNAH Note: Standard common names for the three species of Cricket Frogs remain:

Acris blanchardi – Blanchard’s Cricket Frog
Acris crepitans – Northern Cricket Frog
Acris gryllus – Southern Cricket Frog

In this paper, the subspecies, Acris crepitans paludicola, was synonymized with Acris
crepitans.

*****

A gratis PDF of this article is available from the CNAH PDF Library at

http://www.cnah.org/cnah_pdf.asp

New Website SAVE THE FROGS
Mood:  special
Topic: Media
NEWS RELEASE
The Center for North American Herpetology
Lawrence, Kansas
http://www.cnah.org
3 July 2008

New Web Site: SAVE THE FROGS!

A new website entitled SAVE THE FROGS! has been created by the nonprofit
organization that founded it. Please visit this excellent web site at:

http://www.savethefrogs.com

SAVE THE FROGS! is an international team of scientists, educators, policymakers, and
naturalists dedicated to protecting the world’s amphibian species. We conduct and fund
scientific research that directly benefits amphibian populations. We also engage in
educational activities aimed at increasing the public’s awareness of environmental issues
to ensure that amphibian conservation becomes, and remains, a top priority for current
and future generations.

Dr. Kerry Kriger
SAVE THE FROGS! Nonprofit Organization
Executive Director
Ecologist
kerry@savethefrogs.com

New website about Amphibians in Connecticut
Mood:  special
Topic: Media
NEWS RELEASE
The Center for North American Herpetology
Lawrence, Kansas
http://www.cnah.org
7 July 2008

CONNECTICUT AMPHIBIAN WEB SITE

Considering the cold winters it experiences, Connecticut, the third smallest state in the
union, has a relatively generous list of frogs and salamanders. Twelve species of
salamanders (Caudata) and ten species of frogs(Anura) call this state their home. Check
out the 22 species at

http://ctamp.homestead.com/ctamphibians.html

CONNECTICUT FROGS
American Toad (Bufo americanus)
Fowler's Toad (Bufo fowleri)
Eastern Spadefoot (Scaphiopus holbrookii)
Spring Peeper (Pseudacris crucifer)
Gray Treefrog (Hyla versicolor)
Bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana)
Green Frog (Rana clamitans)
Pickerel Frog (Rana palustris)
Northern Leopard Frog (Rana pipiens)
Wood Frog (Rana sylvatica)

CONNECTICUT SALAMANDERS
Spotted Salamander (Ambystoma maculatum)
Marbled Salamander (Ambystoma opacum)
Jefferson Salamander (Ambystoma jeffersonianum)
Blue-spotted Salamander (Ambystoma laterale)
Two-lined Salamander (Eurycea bislineata)
Northern Dusky Salamander (Desmognathus fuscus)
Four-toed Salamander (Hemidactylium scutatum)
Redback Salamander (Plethodon cinereus)
Northern Spring Salamander (Gyrinophilus p. porphyriticus)
Northern Slimy Salamander (Plethodon glutinosus)
Eastern Newt (Notophthalmus viridescens)
Mudpuppy (Necturus maculosus)

About this web site: The page was created and is maintained by John Himmelman. John is
a naturalist & author/illustrator. The photographs are his own.

CNAH Note: For greater accuracy, comprehension, and ease of use, this web site uses the
traditional, standardized common names for North American species maintained by
Collins & Taggart (2002. Standard Common and Current Scientific Names for North
American Amphibians, Turtles, Reptiles, and Crocodilians. Fifth Edition), published by The
Center for North American Herpetology (available as a pdf at the CNAH web site), and
updated daily online, the only such listing available on the internet worldwide.

2008 Midwest Partners in Amphibian & Reptile Conservation (PARC) Annual Meeting Deadline 8/1/08
Mood:  sharp
Topic: Places to go
2008 Midwest Partners in Amphibian & Reptile Conservation (PARC) Annual Meeting
WHEN:  Sept. 4-6, 2008
WHERE:  YMCA Camp Abe Lincoln, Blue Grass, Iowa

Visit: www.mwparc.org
Note the updated information on presentations and the BioBlitz (below). 

We are pleased to announce Dr. Ray Semlitsch as the keynote speaker for the 2008 meeting.  Dr. Semlitsch received the 2008 National Wetlands Award from the Environmental Law Institute this May, and is well known for his research that has provided valuable information for on-the-ground conservation of Midwest amphibians.

Beyond Identification ... On to Implementation

Worldwide declines of amphibian and reptile populations have been well documented and publicized. What is being done to reverse these trends in the Midwest? Come find out, as Midwest PARC moves beyond identification of the threats facing native populations, and on to implementation of solutions. Presentations will focus on programs that have benefited herpetological biodiversity and how these can become models for successful conservation throughout the region. From the construction of vernal pools and wildlife passages under roadways, to successful repatriation and outreach programs, the Midwest is full of individuals, agencies, and organizations that are making a difference -- Midwest PARC wants to highlight these projects and people, and we want YOU to be a part of our efforts!

When: September 4 - 6, 2008.

Where: Camp Abe Lincoln, Blue Grass, Iowa (http://www.ymcacampabelincoln.org/facilities.asp)

Field Opportunities: In celebration of the dedication of the nation's first Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Area (link), MW PARC will be leading an all day BioBlitz of the area on September 4. Space is limited for this event, so register now!

Cost: Organizers have made every attempt to keep costs to a minimum to encourage a wide range of particpants. Registration includes lodging for two nights (September 4 and 5) at Camp Abe Lincoln and six meals (dinner on the 4th through lunch on the 6th) for just $99! Student registration is just $74. For those wishing to participate in the BioBlitz, lodging on September 3 and breakfast and lunch on the 4th is also available for a modest cost.

Registration: On-line at http://www.regonline.com/MWPARC

Download the minutes from the MW PARC 2007 meeting:
http://www.mwparc.org/MWPARC_2007_Meeting_Minutes.pdf

Funeral for a Friend RIP Gimpy-the Bullfrog Ambassador
Mood:  sad
Topic: Articles

RIP Gimpy the Bullfrog Ambassador
Current mood: gloomy
Category: Friends

Rescued September 1, 2005     Died June 29, 2008

I found Gimpy when he still had a short bit of tail not yet reabsorbed. There were five others in the same small whiskey barrel fountain I found him him in. With his bad leg, he could ot get out of the water and relied on whatever food flew in. Needless to say he looked very thin and unhealthy. The fountain was in my sister's flower garden and had been treated for mosquitos. The neighbor's all around had their lawn professionally treated. Whether it was the chemicals or the little red worms in the water or a genetic thing, ot other reason, Gimpy had a bad leg that left him unable to take care of himself. We took him home in on old Speedway cup and so began his days as a Zetterberg. The day he was rescued was the day my neice was born, at the hospital my sister told me there were small frogs in her fountain and to check them out after we left. When we went to visit five days later, I checked and the other five frogs were dead. Gimpy was first given the name Jeremiah, because "Jeremiah was a Bullfrog", but my wife called him Gimpy and it stuck. I had read about deformities all over the world and across the US, but finding this in my sister's yard in my home county, really bothered me. That was when I decided to start educating the public about amphibians and their declines (some caused by malformations). Gimpy and I have seen thousands of people, mostly children in the three years he was with me. The last two years he reached maturity and would call when I picked him up. Most wild bullfrogs have a distress call that sounds much like a cat being tortured (or how I imagine it would sound), but he actually did the mating call when I held him (which at first made me wonder if I should be holding him that way). He lived a good life in captivity, he would have not made it very long in the wild, when he got excited, he hopped in circles. A predator would have got him easily. He would call often in the house and fill the room with his wonderful call. Sometimes at three in the morning, it was not so wonderful, but I never complained. Friday he was calling quite a bit, Saturday I don't remeber him calling, but he seemed active and happy. Sunday he was dead. I don't know what happened, he showed no signs of illness, but with amphibians, sometimes it over before its ever detected. I hope it was quick and he didn't suffer. He will be missed greatly. I did a program Monday, and when I got to the point I usually bring him out (he wa the star), I felt very, very sad. The show must go on, and its importance is even greater now with Gimpy gone. I think he inspired many people, mostly children to look at amphibians with awe and hopefully instilled a passion for wildlife conservation in many of them. I had thought about it many times, when Gimpy dies if I should have him preserved and looked at by scientists to try to figure out why his leg was like that, but when it happened, I decided Gimpy has done enough for the world and should be allowed to rest in peace. He was buried in an Amazon.com box (I figured the Amazon was probably a lot like Frog Heaven) in my back yard next to some stella-d'oro daylilles, a maple tree and some honey suckle. The spot was marked with a frog plaque (several frogs on lily pads) and a white cross with his name and recure and death dates. Finding my dear friend Gimpy has changed my life in a wonderful way, he will always be close to my heart and an inspiration to educate as many as I can about amphibians. While I have known many frogs, I can say that Gimpy is the only one I can say I have ever considered a friend. He had quite a personality, though being human, I couldn't appricate all of it, I did love watching him and interacting with him. He has been in many newspapers and his picture on several web sites, I hoped that someday, he might be considered the most photographed Bullfrog in Indiana, but his time was cut short and we will have to just appreciate the time and photos we had. Goodbye, Gimpy.

Confused Frogs
Mood:  d'oh
Topic: Out in the Field
Life is never boring around here. I have been very busy with yardwork and building a screech owl nest box for my MoM for Mother's Day and a squirrel nest box for my Mother-in-law, anyway, I realized Saturday night that I had seveal program coming up next week and I didn't have a toad for them. So I get out the flashlight and my wife and I heard out to the cement pond. (an abandoned fertilizer plant with a concrete pad that fills with water and is used by local toads and treefrogs) Just after we get there, my Dad pulls up and tells us my Mother-in-law called and cut her finger and is in the ER. He takes my wife and I watch the half dozen toads calling for a few minutes and then catch one and head home. I ave a tank set up on our porch for a green frog and a couple of juvenile bullfrogs, and since it was last minute and I didn't have a toad tank set up yet, I put the toad in with the pond frogs. Sunday, as everyone is arriving for dinner for Mother's Day, my wife finds the amourous American Toad amplexed with the male Green Frog. For most of the day he held on for all he was worth, but by evening one or the other had had enough and they were apart. Too bad the camera went for a swim and is no longer working.