Amphibian and reptile survey of the Thompson Chain of Lakes

Description

A brief inventory of the Thompson Chain of Lakes was conducted in May-June 2000 for amphibians and reptiles in the complex of wetlands present there. Twenty-six site surveys at 16 sites revealed the presence of four amphibian species and three reptile species at 13 sites; one species was detected at 5 sites, two species at 4 sites, three species at 3 sites, and four species at 1 site. Amphibians detected included long-toed salamander (Ambystoma macrodactylum) at 8 sites, western toad (Bufo boreas) at 2 sites, Pacific tree frog (Hyla regilla) at 2 sites (also heard calling from a cattail area in one of the main lakes), and Columbia spotted frog (Rana luteiventris) at 5 sites. Reptiles detected included painted turtle (Chrysemys picta) at 6 sites, common garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis) at 2 sites, and western terrestrial garter snake (Thamnophis elegans) at 1 site. Total individuals and eggs masses seemed low for the amount of available, apparently suitable, habitat. However, amphibian/reptile species richness at the Thompson Chain of Lakes is at or near expectation, and the inventory revealed all of the anticipated amphibian and wetland-associated reptile species, with the possible exception of the northern leopard frog (Rana pipiens).

Subjects

Genres

• Surveys