zvegso's Identifications

April 3rd, 2024 at 6:00pm.
Northern Red-legged Frog
Rana aurora

Found around Jane's creek on near the Arcata Ridge Trail
Adult, possibly female, Alive
Weather was partly cloudy and about 55 degrees F.

Habitat: forest consisting of redwoods, alders, birches and more, mixed in with a creek and much riparian vegetation. Specimen was in a moist area of small trees and bushes near a fallen log and near the side of the trail.

I identified this specimen as a northern red-legged frog due to the reddish/brown coloring of the legs. Dorsal lateral folds were apparent and specimen had long legs. Dark blotches on the back have no light centers, indicating it’s not a California red-legged frog. Small black flecks and blotches appeared on the legs, back, face and sides. Stripe extending from upper jaw to shoulder. Underside was reddish, orange, and yellow.

Enlarged forearms and dark nuptial pads, and webbing did not seem apparent. Likely a female.

Hopped away as soon as it saw me, but Zach caught it for me with a quick swipe.

ID based on: 7 upper labials, large eyes compared to other garter snakes
Juvenile, sex unknown. Found a short distance off the Lyons Ranch trail
Weather: ~60 F, sunny with a light breeze
Time: 5:00-5:30
Macrohabitat: oak savanna
Microhabitat: small, marshy pool surrounded by reeds and grassy vegetation. Water is stagnant with a muddy bottom. Found moving within vegetation along edge of pond.
Other notes: was found near a pond containing about 15 rough-skinned newts, which are its likely prey source. This was a small individual, likely a late-stage juvenile. Surprisingly did not musk on me, but behavior was normal besides for that. Several other garter snakes were seen along the perimeter of this pond but I was only able to catch this one.