Madison, Wisconsin: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Summary
In response to reported declines in numbers and physical condition of leopard frogs (Rana pipiens) in Wisconsin, a study was initiated to acquire basic knowledge of leopard frog ecology through statewide and intrastate regional surveys of breeding populations and mortality from 1974-76. The statewide breeding surveys generally confirmed reports of a severe depression in the populations of leopard frogs. Of 301 sites in Wisconsin that appeared to provide good habitat, only 15 (5%) were occupied by leopard frogs in both 1974 and 1975. In a 7-county study area in East Central Wisconsin, only 30% of 83 ponds with suitable leopard frog habitat showed any leopard frog activity during 1975 and 1976.