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Preliminary
Amphibian and Reptile Survey

of the
Helena National Forest: 1995

STATE DOCUMENTS COLLECTION

.!UN IP 1998

MONTANA STATE LIBRARY
.,^, 1515 E. 6th AVE.
HELENA, MONTANA 59S2Q

A Report to:

USDA Forest Service

Helena National Forest

2880 Skyway Drive
^,^elena,MT 59601

•# i%J§ M M irf |t^

Submitted by

JM-IES D. REICHEL

March 1996

Montana Natural Heritage Program
1515 East Sixth Avenue

P.O. Box 201800
Helena. MT 59620-1800

This document should be cited as follows:

Reichel, J. D. 1996. Preliminary amphibian and reptile survey of the Helena National Forest: 1995. Montana
Natural Heritage Program. Helena, MT. 87 pp.

ABSTRACT

A total of 44 sun'eys and several additional sightings were made in the Helena National
Forest (HNF) between May and August 1995. Localized areas across the entire forest were
covered in the survey. Surveys of ponds, lakes, seeps, streams or other wetlands, made by 1 or 2
individuals. Each survey took 10-150 person-minutes and consisted of a thorough search of the
wetland perimeter and netting of near shore aquatic habitats for adults, eggs, larvae, and tadpoles.
Stream sampling was done by hand and dipnet. Seeps were checked by rolling over rocks and
logs in and near wet areas. In addition to surs'eys, sightings were made from road kills, vocal
identifications, or fortuitous sightings by other reliable individuals.

Four amphibians are present on the HNF: Long-toed Salamander (Ambystoma
macrodactylum). Tailed Frog {Ascaphus truei). Western Toad {Bufo boreas), and Spotted Frog
{Rana pretiosa). The Spotted Frog was the most widespread amphibian tliroughout the forest.
The Tailed Frog has been reported from a single location on the Lincoln District. Long-toed
Salamanders were found throughout the main Rocky Mountain chain and in the Elkliom
Mountains. The Western Toad was found in very few locations on the HNF in 1995, all in the
main Rocky Mountain chain. Historically it has been reported in the Big Belt Mountains;
however it was not found there during our surveys. This is consistent with the apparent region-
wide declines in this species. Four other prairie-inliabiting amphibians have been reported in the
area, though in some cases well away from HNF lands; these include the Western Chorus Frog
{Pseudacris trisehatd), Woodhouse's Toad {Bufo woodhousii), Plains Spadefoot {Scaphiopus
bombifrons), and Northern Leopard Frog {Rana pipiens). The Western Chorus Frog is common
in prairie ponds to the north and east of HNF lands; two reports were received for the Helena
National Forest, but need confimiation. A tadpole reported to be a Woodhouse's Toad is present
at the Montana State University Museum; given the difficulty in identifying toad tadpoles and
distance from known sites, this should be treated as hypothetical until verified. The Plains
Spadefoot is known from the Helena Valley, but has yet to be found in the ITNF. A report was
received of a Northern Leopard Frog from the vicinity of McDonald Pass; given the distance
from other known locations and unusual habitat, this report should be treated as hypothetical
until verified. The Northern Leopard Frog was also reported historically from several prairie
areas, outside and at lower elevations than HNF lands. The Deepdale Fishing Access Site had
frogs as recently as 1994, however three surveys in 1995 failed to relocate them. Northern
Leopard Frogs are nearly extirpated from western Montana, and recent evidence indicates a
decline elsewhere in Montana (except perhaps the southeast comer).

Ten reptiles have been reported from near the HNF, but only tliree have been definitely
reported from on the forest: the Racer {Coluber constrictor), Western Terrestrial Garter Snake
{Thamnophis elegans) and Conimon Garter Snake {TJwmnophis sirtalis). All were reported in
the main Rocky Mountains. The Racer and Western Terrestrial Garter Snake also were found in
the Big Belt Mountains and there is a record of the Common Garter Snake from the Elkliom
Mountains. The following reptiles have been reported in the area and may eventually be found
on lower elevation HNF lands: Painted Turtle {Chrysemys picta). Spiny Softshell {Trionyx
spinifera). Short-homed Lizard {Phrynosoina douglasi). Rubber Boa {Charina bottae). Milk
Snake {Lcmpropeltis triangidum), Gopher Snake {Pituophis catenifer), and Western Rattlesnake

{Crotalus viridis). The Painted Turtle has been recorded just off the HNF on the east side of the
Elkhom Mountains. The Spiny Softshell is present in large rivers at lower elevations; it has been
reported from Canyon Ferry Reservoir, but there is no recent confirmation. Both the Short-
homed Lizard and Milk Snake are present in the area near Three Forks, south of the HNF. The
Rubber Boa has been recorded just off the HNF south of Helena and near Granite Butte; it surely
occurs on the HNF. The Gopher Snake has been reported from the intermountain valleys, as
close as Va mile from the HNF. The Western Rattlesnake also has been recorded just off the
HNF; v/iih several records at lower elevations, it probably will eventually be found on the HNF
lands.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ABSTRACT iii

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS vii

INTRODUCTION 1

METHODS AND MATERIALS 2

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 3

Species kno\vn to be present on the Helena National Forest 6

Long-toed Salamander {Ambystoma macrodactylum) 6

Tailed Frog {Ascaphus truei) 8

Western Toad {Bufo boreas) 10

Spotted Frog {Rana pretiosa) 12

Racer {Coluber constrictor) 14

Western Terrestrial Garter Snake {Thamnophis elegans) 16

Common Garter Snake {Thamnophis sirtalis) 18

Species Potentially Present on the Helena National Forest 20

Western Chorus Frog {Pseiidacris triseriata) 20

Woodhouse's Toad {Bufo woodhousii) 22

Plains Spadefoot {Scaphiopus [=SpeaJ bombifrons) 24

Northern Leopard Frog {Rana pipiens) 26

Painted Turtle {Chrysemys picta) 28

Spiny Softshell {Trionyx spiniferus) {=Apa!one spiniferd) 30

Short-homed Lizard {Phrynosoma douglasi) 32

Rubber Boa {Charina bottae) 34

Milk Snake {Lampropeltis trianguhun) 36

Gopher Snake {Pituophis catenifer [=melanoleucusJ) 38

Western Rattlesnake {Crotahis viridis) 40

Regional Information 41

Rocky Mountain chain 41

Elkhom Mountains 41

Big Belt Mountains 42

Dry Range 42

RECOMMENDATIONS 43

Surveys, Monitoring and Research 43

Management 44

BIBLIOGRAPHY 45

Appendix 1. Data Sheets used for Reptiles and Amphibian Surveys and Observations 59

Appendix 2. Sites surveyed during 1995 amphibian and reptile surveys 61

Appendix 3. Amphibians and reptiles observed during surveys on or near the Helena National
Forest in 1995 64

Appendix 4. Amphibians and reptiles reported from in and around the Helena National Forest
66

Appendix 5. Notes on harlequin surveys and examination of potential northern bog lemming
habitat on the Helena National Forest 83

Appendix 6. Heritage program species ranking definitions 85

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

I would like to thank the staff from the Helena National Forest for their assistance in
determining the location of possible sur\'ey sites, information on heip obser\'ations, field
assistance, and other support; they included Quinn Carver, Brent Costain, Doug Grupenhoff,
Archie Haiper, Shane Hendrickson, Connie Jacobs, Barry Paulson, Melanie Scott, and Len
Walch. D. D. Dover, J. Hinshaw, C. Jones, and K. Jurist assisted with field work, data entry, and
map preparation. Financial support for the project came from the Helena National Forest (U.S.
Forest Service, Northern Region) and the Montana Natural Heritage Program (Montana State
Library, Natural Resources Information System and The Nature Consers'ancy).

Museum records were received from: American Museum of Natural History, Academy of
Natural Science, Bingham Young University, California Academy of Science, Carnegie Museum,
University of Puget Sound Museum, Field Museum of Natural History, Glacier National Park
Museum, Illinois Natural History Survey, University of Kansas, Los Angeles County Museum,
Louisiana State University Museum of Zoology, Museum of Comparative Zoology - Harvard,
Milwaukee Public Museum, Montana State University Museum, Michigan State University
Museum, North Carolina State Museum of Natural History, Northern Louisiana University
Museum, University of Colorado Museum, University of Georgia Museum of Natural History,
University of Idaho Museum, University of Michigan Museum, University of Montana Museum,
University of South Dakota, United States National Museum of Natural History, University of
Texas - Arlington, University of Texas - El Paso, Peabody Museum - Yale, University of
California-Berkeley Museum of Vertebrate Zoology, and Mid-continental Ecological Sciences
Center at University of New Mexico Museum of Southwestern Biology. Much of the museum
data was received with the help of Dr. Charles Peterson, Idaho State University, Pocatello.

's'il

INTRODUCTION

Many amphibians are apparently declining in the western U.S. and world-wide (Com and
Fogelman 1984, Phillips 1994, Yoffe 1992). Acid rain, ozone depletion, pollution by toxic
chemicals and heavy metals, predation and/or competition by exotic species, habitat alteration,
climate change, disease, immune system problems, and some combination of these factors have
all been suggested as possible causes (Blaustein et al. 1994a, 1994b; Corn and Fogelman 1984;
Phillips 1994; Yoffe 1992).

Bass and non-native trout have been introduced into waters on or near the Helena National
Forest (HNF) and have been implicated in declines of native amphibian populations in some
areas. Past forestry practices and large scale logging continue to be detrimental to resident
herpetofauna (Bury et al. 1991). The Tailed Frog (Ascaphiis truei), present on the HNF, is
thought to be one of the most sensitive indicators of stream-side and aquatic community health in
forested landscapes (R. B. Bury, pers. comm.). Preliminary data indicate the Northern Leopard
Frog {Rana pipiens) has disappeared over much of its former range in western Montana and is
declining in at least some areas of eastern Montana (Hendricks and Reichel in review; Reichel
1995a, 1995b; Werner and Reichel 1994, 1996). The US Fish and Wildlife Service now lists the
Western Toad {Biifo boreas) as a Candidate (C-1) species in Colorado, Wyoming and New
Mexico. Apparent declines have recently been reported in northern Idaho (C. Peterson pers.
comm.), northwest Montana (Reichel and Flath 1995; Werner and Plumber 1995; Werner and
Reichel 1994, 1996), Yellowstone National Park (Koch and Peterson 1995), Wyoming, and
Colorado (Carey 1993).

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service listed two Montana amphibians and two reptiles as
Candidate (C2) species: the Spotted Frog {Rana pretiosa). Tailed Frog, Short-homed Lizard
{Phrynosoma douglasi) and Northern Sagebmsh Lizard {Sceloporus graciosus graciosus). The
U.S. Forest Service Region 1 lists the Coeur d'Alene Salamander {Plethodon idahoemis) as
"Sensitive" and is considering adding several other amphibians. The Montana Natural Heritage
Program and the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks list 6 amphibians [Coeur
d'Alene Salamander, Idaho Giant Salamander {Dicamptodon aterrimns). Tailed Frog, Canadian
Toad {Bufo hemiophrys). Spotted Frog, Wood Frog {Rana sylvatica)] and 7 reptiles [Snapping
Turtle {Chelydra serpentina). Spiny Softshell {Trionyx spiniferus). Short-homed Lizard,
Sagebrush Lizard, Western Hognose Snake [Heterodon nasicus). Smooth Green Snake
{Opheodrys vemalis). Milk Snake {Lampropeltis triangulum)] as species of special concem in
the state. The Northern Leopard Frog and Western Toad are being considered for addition to the
species of special concem list; currently they on the watch list. Seven of these species, the Tailed
Frog, Western Toad, Spotted Frog, Northern Leopard Frog, Spiny Softshell, Short-homed Lizard,
and Milk Snake occur or potentially occur on the HNF.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Historic locations of amphibians and reptiles were recorded from literature (see
Bibliography) and museum specimen records. Records were received from over 20 major
museum collections in North America (see Acknowledgments). Locations derived from these
sources have been entered into a database and digitized.

Survey sites were chosen based on 4 criteria: 1) high priority sites as determined by the ILNF;
2) location of streams, seeps and wetlands on topographic maps; 3) accessibility of the wetlands
by roads or hiking trails; and 4) conversations with district biologists regarding stream-seep-
wetland locations. Based on the above, 2-8 sites were chosen daily for surveys. A total of 10-
150 person-minutes were spent at each site, depending upon the size of the area and what was
found. Initially, the entire shoreline, or a major part thereof, was searched by walking slowly
along the edge and up into the surrounding vegetation, including rolling over rocks and logs. At
regular intervals, the aquatic habitat was sampled for tadpoles or larvae using dipnets. If the
initial sampling showed amphibian/reptile species present, further effort was expended in order
to get some idea of abundance and distribution.

An attempt was made to capture at least the first few individuals of a species seen at a survey
site. The species name was recorded along with developmental stage and sex (if possible); the
animals were then released. Representative samples of the more common species in an area were
preserved for permanent museum records and will be deposited at the Idaho State University
Museum. Water temperature, air temperature, pH, a general description of the area, and other
parameters were recorded. Standard data sheets used during this project are given in Appendix
1; the amphibian survey data sheet was developed by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and is used
extensively by a variety of researchers in the western U.S. Much site-specific data was gathered
during these surveys; not all data has been analyzed or is presented in this report, but is available
from the Montana Natural Heritage Program.

Natural Heritage Program species status ranking definitions and explanations are given in
Appendix 6.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

A total of 47 sites were surveyed of which 29 had one or more amphibian or reptile species
present (Figure 1, Appendices 2 and 3); one site was surveyed two times. Although no species
were found at 1 8 sites, their absence may have been due to the time of day, weather conditions,
or other factors at the time of sampling. With three exceptions, all of the sites were on HNF
land.

In addition to the 48 sur\'eys, there were a number of sightings (i.e. road kills, chance
observations) for which data are available and the sightings considered reliable. Species location
data from surveys, chance encounters, and historic records (from the literature and museum
specimens) are listed in Appendix 4. Distribution maps were created using survey and sighting
data and historical records; inset statewide maps for each species are based on sight and
specimen records, both recent and historic.

No previous publications or reports on reptiles or amphibians concentrate on the HNF area.
Based on museum specimens, publications, surveys and incidental obsers'ations, four
amphibians and three reptiles have been located on the HNF; an additional four amphibians and
seven reptiles may eventually be found to occur there. Tliree amphibian and one reptile species
were actually obser\'ed during the study. The following results are presented as individual
species summaries for the Forest as a whole, followed by specific infonnation on each mountain
range.

In the following species accounts, the section on "Similar Species" covers species only which
are known or suspected to occur in Montana; outside Montana other confusing species may occur
which are not covered in this report. Photos of all Montana amphibians and reptiles may be
found in Reichel and Flath (1995). Keys to amphibian eggs (Livezey and Wright 1947) and
tadpoles (Altig 1970) are a\'ailable in the literature, but are difficult to use, and for many species
are not satisfactory for field identification.

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Species known to be present on the Helena National Forest

Long-toed Salamander {Ambystoma macrodactyhim)

Description: Adults are dart: gray to black with an irregular (and sometimes broken) green to
yellow stripe down the middle of the back. Adult snout-vent length varies from 2 to 3.25".
All salamanders have smooth moist skin without scales.

Eggs and Larvae: Egg masses are typically laid in small clusters of 5-100 eggs but may be
laid singly (Nussbaum et al. 1983); egg masses are typically attached to underwater
vegetation or submerged branches. Within the clear gelatinous eggs, the embryos are
somewhat light-colored, while frog and toad embr>'os are dark (e.xcept in Tailed Frogs).
Larval Long-toed Salamanders are typically brown- or gray-colored, are found in ponds, have
tliree external gills, and are relatively small (<1.75" snout-vent) and slender. They are
distinguished from Tiger Salamander larvae by the 9-13 gill rakers on the inside of the 3rd
gill arch (17-22 rakers on the Tiger Salamander); they are also smaller and lack the large head
and mouth.

Similar species: Adult Long-toed Salamanders can be distinguished from Coeur d'Alene

Salamanders by the longest toe on the hind foot which is longer than the sole and a yellow
tliroat patch. Long-toed Salamanders lack a groove running vertically from nostril to mouth.

Habitat and Habits: Long-toed Salamanders are found in a wide variety of habitats from
sagebrush to nearly alpine. They breed in ponds or lakes (very rarely in slow moving
streams), usually those without fish present; on the HNF they were found in temporary and
permanent ponds/lakes and inactive beaver ponds. Adults go to the breeding ponds
immediately after snow-melt and are usually the earliest breeding amphibians in western
Montana. In the Pacific Northwest, eggs hatch in 3-6 weeks and metamorphosis occurs after
2-14 months (Nussbaum e/o/. 1983, Leonard e/o/. 1993). Long-toed Salamanders were
found in 14 locations on the HNF. The earliest surveys on 15-25 May 1995 found only egg
masses, from newly laid to nearly ready to hatch. July surveys found primarily small larva,
however, a pond near the head of Austin Creek had 2 small larva and 1 juvenile which
appeared nearly fully transformed; this would indicate at least some larva overwinter and
transfonn when over a year old. At an o.xbow on the Blackfoot River a single transforming
juvenile war found on 25 August, showing transformation may take only one season at lower
elevation sites. Individuals were found in the Rocky Mountains and the Elkhorn Mountains
from 4350 - 7050 ft. elevation. Spotted Frogs co-occurred at all sites and Western Toads at 2
sites.

Surveying: Larvae can readily be seen in ponds during the day and sampled with a dipnet; egg
masses are somewhat harder to see. During the breeding season, adults may also be seen in
the water, particularly during night surveys. During the rest of the spring, summer and fall,
adults may occasionally be found in and under logs on the forest floor. Metamorphosed
individuals are active at night, particularly when it is wann and rainy; they may be captured at
tlais time by either night searches or pitfall traps.

Status: The Long-toed Salamander is the most common salamander in western Montana. The
Long-toed Salamander is also common on the HNF in the Rocky Mountains. The Long-toed
Salamander is also found in the northwestern part of the Elklioms, the farthest east reported

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location in its range. The Eikhoms are the only isolated mountain range east of the
Continental Divide where this species is found. However, none were found in the southern
Elklioms or Big Belt Mountains. In the Lewis and Clark National Forest (L&CNF) it was
found to be very local in distribution east of the Continental Divide and was not found in the
isolated ranges to the east (Reichel 1995a). Given the unique position of the Elkliorn
populations more surveys should be done to better understand and document the distribution
there.
Montana Natural Heritage Program rank: G5 S5.

Tailed Frog {Ascaphus truei)

Description: Adults are gray or brown with gray, brown, or occasionally yellow blotches; the
skin has a distinctly bumpy texture. The adult has a snout-vent length of 1.5-2" and lacks a
tympanum. The outer toe of the hind foot is broader than the other toes. The male has a
bulbous "tail" which acts as a penis.

Eggs and Larvae: Approximately 50 eggs are laid in rosary-like strings attached to the
underside of rocks. The tadpole (up to 2" long) is unique in that it has a large mouth
modified into a sucker; the color is quite variable.

Similar species: No other frog or toad has the outer toe of the hind foot broader than the other
toes; all other frogs and toads have a tympanum behind each eye.

Habitat and Habits: Tailed Frogs are found in and along small, swift, cold mountain streams. In
the Cascade Mountains of Washington and Oregon, the Tailed Frog appears to be very
sensitive to siltation and frequently disappears in and downstream from clearcuts and water
diversions (Bury, pers. comm.). Preliminary findings do not indicate that this is the case in
Montana. Eggs are laid during the late summer and take approximately 4 weeks to hatch.
Tadpoles take 1-4 years to metamorphose, depending on water temperature (Nussbaum et al.
1983; Metter 1967). Sexual maturity in Montana is attained at ages 6-7, (Daugherty and
Sheldon 1982) which is the latest age for sexual maturity of any North American amphibian.

Surveying: Tadpoles are frequently found while electro-shocking fish. They may also be found
by turning over rocks in rapid water with a net held just downstream. Adults are best found
by walking up streams starting 30-60 minutes after dark.

Status: The Tailed Frog on the HNF is known from a single observation from the late 1960s on a
"tributary of Copper Creek" (Franz 1971). While Tailed Frogs should be considered a
species with a very localized distribution on the HNF, it may be more common and
widespread in suitable habitat than is currently known. It should be looked for tliroughout the
Forest, especially to the south and east of the currently known location. East of the
Continental Divide on the L&CNF it was also found to be very local in distribution (Reichel
1995a). It seem doubtful that the Tailed Frog is found in the Elkhorn Mountains given the
intensity of surveys (A. Harper, pers. comm.), and the surveyors specifically watching for the
species, during the summer of 1995. It is common and widespread in northwestern Montana
(Reichel and Flath 1995, Werner and Reichel 1994, 1996). Previously it was a USFWS
Candidate species (C-2). We would recommend that all sightings of this species be reported.

Montana Natural Heritage Program rank: G5 S3S4.

Western Toad {Bufo boreas)

Description: Adults are colored with a gray, browTi, or olive-green mottling and a prominent
white or yellowish line down the center of the back; very young transformed toads typically
lack the dorsal line, and the warts are often red-brown in color. The pupils are horizontal.
The adult has a body length of 2.5-5". There are no cranial crests and the skin is relatively
dry with many warts and glands present.

Eggs and Larvae: Eggs are laid in long, clear, double strings, and each has a black embryo.
Tadpoles are typically jet black, while all mid- to large-sized frog tadpoles in Montana are
green or bronze (except for some Tailed Frogs); very small frog tadpoles are also black.

Similar species: Other Montana toads have cranial crests between their eyes. The Plains
Spadefoot has one tubercle on the sole of the hind feet, a vertical pupil, and smoother skin.
NOTE: It is very difficult to distinguish among the four Montana toad species eggs, larvae,
and recently-transformed toadlets.

Habitat and Habits: Adults are largely terrestrial and found in a variety of habitats from valley
bottoms to high elevations; they breed in lakes, ponds, and slow streams with a preference for
shallow areas with mud bottoms. Breeding and egg laying in Montana usually takes place 1-
3 months after snow-melt, from April at lower elevations to July at higher sites. Tadpoles are
typically 2-3 months old at metamorphosis in Montana, depending on water temperature
(Black 1970). Following metamorphosis, hundreds of small toads, many with the tails still
present, can be found on the shores of breeding ponds. Western Toads were reported
breeding from only two locations on the HNF in 1995. We found thousands of Vi grown
tadpoles in a pond near Dog Creek on 1 1 July 1995 and 3 metamorphs on an oxbow along the
Blackfoot River on 25 August.

Surveying: Tadpoles are easily seen in ponds during the day and can be sampled with a dipnet.
During the breeding season, adults may be seen in the water but at other times are found in
more terrestrial habitats.

Status: Tadpoles and metamorphs of the Western Toad were observed at only two sites during
the 1995 survey in the HNF (Appendix 2, 3). No adults were seen during our surveys
however, B. Spettigue (pers. comm.) saw one adult near McDonald Pass (Appendix 4). None
were seen in the Elkhom or Big Belt Mountains, although historic records exist for sites in or
near both (Appendix 3,4). The rarity of this species on the HNF and lack of recent sightings
in the eastern ranges is of concern. During 1994 we found no Western Toads in the Little
Belt, Highwood, or Crazy Mountain of the L&CNF although historic records exist for all
three ranges; additionally only a single breeding site was located on the main Rocky
Mountains of the L&CNF (Reichel 1995a). Brunson (1952) regarded the Western Toad as
one of the most common batrachians (frogs and toads) in western Montana. Black (1970)
supported its common occurrence not only in the west but in many counties east of the
continental divide. The Western Toad has declined from the most common anuran in
western Montana, to a relatively rare one in the state in the past 25 years (Reichel and Flath
1995, Werner and Plumber 1995, Werner and Reichel 1994, 1996).

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service now lists this species as a Candidate (C-1) species in
Colorado, Wyoming, and New Mexico. Apparent declines have recently been reported in
northern Idaho (C. Peterson pers. comm.), Yellovv'stone National Park (Koch and Peterson

1995, Peterson et al. 1992), Wyoming, and Colorado (Carey 1993). We would recommend
that all sightings of this species be reported and that a monitoring program be set up for this
species.
Montana Natural Heritage Program rank: G4 S3S4.

Spotted Frog {Rana pretiosd)

Description: The adult has a snout-vent length of 2-4". Adults are dark to light brown, gray, or
olive green with dark spots (frequently with lighter centers) found on the back, sides and legs.
The number and pattern of spotting is quite variable. The back and sides are often covered
with small bumps. The underside of the legs is bright red, salmon, or orange; this bright
color may extend up to the chin or be replaced by a light, mottled gray on the chin, chest,
and/or belly. In younger subadults, bright leg color is often lacking and instead a light,
lemon-colored wash is present. In these subadults there is often a dark mask present, with a
light jaw stripe extending to the shoulder; both the mask and jaw stripe may be less obvious
in larger, older animals.

Eggs and Tadpoles: Eggs are laid in large, globular masses of 1 50-500 at the surface of the
water. The tadpoles are dark green to brown on top with some gold flecking whereas the
underside has an iridescent bronze or silver color. Total length of tadpoles may reach 3"; the
eyes are located on top of the head.

Similar species: The bright-colored pigment on the undersides of the adult's legs distinguish this
species from all other fi-ogs in Montana. Younger individuals, without colored legs, may
usually be distinguished from other frogs by a combination of: 1) dorsal spots usually present
but not surrounded by light-colored halos; 2) dorsolateral folds present; 3) toes without pads
at the tips; and 4) a pale gray, (rather than white) belly.

Haoitat and Habits: Spotted Frogs are regularly found at the water's edge in openings within
forest habitats. Wetlands in or near treeline are also used, but populations are uncommon in
the large, open intermountain valleys. Eggs hatch in 2-3 weeks and tadpoles take 2-14
months to metamorphose, depending on water temperature (Nussbaum et al 1983, Turner
1958). Breeding takes place in lakes, ponds (temporary and permanent), springs, and
occasionally backwaters or beaver ponds in streams. All the egg masses in a particular pond
are often found in the same location at the margin of the pond; therefore, the eggs are
susceptible to drying up if pond levels recede substantially before hatching. Young and adult
fi-ogs often disperse into marsh and forest habitats but are not usually found far from open
water. The Spotted Frog was commonly found throughout the HNF from just above the
prairie edge at 4350 to 7050 ft. elevation near timberline. Individuals were found in every
type of wetland habitat, although numbers varied widely from one to 50 or more per site.
Eggs were found on the first sur.'eys on 1 5 May 95 at two locations in the Elkhoms and as
late as 25 May (last spring sur\'eys). Hatching tadpoles were seen on 17 May 95 in the Big
Belts; mid-large tadpoles were present during July surveys and only metamorphs were seen
by late August. The largest group of egg masses I have seen was found on 20 May in an old
beaver pond on a tributary of Beaver Creek (Appendix 2); I estimated 120 egg masses were
present covering an area about 6 X 8 ft.

Sur\'eying: Adults, tadpoles, and eggs are easily seen in and along the ^^'ater during the da;>' l.-:-::

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can be sampled with a dipnet; adults may also be captured by hand. Many adults may leave
the breeding ponds following egg laying and move to nearby feeding areas for the summer.
Tadpoles are difficult to distinguish from those of the Northern Leopard Frog in areas where
the two species may overlap.

Status: The most common frog on the ITNF and in western Montana. It was observed in all areas
sur\'eyed on the HNF, and occurred in all 28 sites where any amphibian was species found.
However, it appeared to be much less common in the Big Belt Mountains than the Elkliorns
or main Rocky Mountains. The species was previously a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Category 2 Candidate species in Montana; elsewhere in its range it is listed as a C-1, with
Threatened/Endangered status warranted but precluded by work on higher priority species
(U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1993). While significant declines are known from the
southern end of the range (Nevada, southern Idaho, Utah) and are also apparent in coastal
Washington (McAllister et al. 1993), Oregon, and California, recent (as yet unpublished)
research indicates that those populations are actually different species.

Montana Natural Heritage Program rank: G4 S4.

Racer {Coluber constrictor)

Description: A slender, but moderately long snake, the Racer ranges from 20-65 inches in length.
Adult coloration is uniform across the dorsal side but it can vary from a greenish-gray to
brown or blue. The ventral side is whitish to pale yellow, the latter color extending onto the
upper lip scales and nasal region. The eyes are relatively large. The scales are smooth and
the nostril is bordered by two scales.

Young: Snakes (up to about 20") have a much different coloration than the adults consisting
of a series of dorsal brown blotches edged with black which run the length of the animal; a
row of blotches is also found on each side of the animal extending onto the ventral side.

Similar species: Young Gopher Snakes may be distinguished by the keeled rather than smooth
scales of the young Racer. Young Western Hognose Snakes have an upturned nose. Smooth
Green Snakes are smaller and colored bright grass-green and whitish below; their nostrils are
centered in single scales. Also see Rubber Boa.

Habitat and Habits: The Racer is associated with open habitats, either in shortgrass, slirub-steppe,
or forested areas (Hammerson 1982a, Ba.xter and Stone 1985). It is often found near water
and rocks. The Racer is an extremely fast and agile snake. A clutch of perhaps 3-7 eggs is
laid in the summer (Stebbins 1985). It preys on insects and small vertebrates such as mice
and frogs.

Surveying: They may be sur\'eyed for by slowly walking through appropriate habitat on warm,
sunny days and carefiiUy watching for them; this technique is moderately effective for the
Racer. However, as with many lizards and snakes, they may easily be missed. Carefully
documented incidental obsen'ations may provide the best clues to their distribution. They
may be also taken in funnel traps with drift fences. Mark-recaplTjre methods offer the best
opportunity for determining population status.

Status: The Racer was not seen in this sur\'ey, however, Davis (1963) has a map of this species
which shows records apparently on the HNF. A more recent sighting was made just off the

Seiben Ranch below the Forest. They would be expected to occur on the HNF at low to mid-
elevations; given the poor accuracy of the Davis (1963) map, any sightings should be
documented. Of particular interest would be documentation of any denning sites located.
Montana Natural Heritage Program Rank: G5 S5.

Western Terrestrial Garter Snake {Thanmophis elegans)

Description: Adult Western Terrestrial (or Wandering) Garter Snakes are smaller in body size
than the Common Garter Snake, their length varying from 18-43". Tliree yellow longitudinal
stripes are present (one dorsal, two lateral on the 2nd and 3rd scale rows), but the dorsal
stripe is much narrower than that of the Common Garter Snake. A distinctive feature of the
Western Terrestrial Garter Snake is a series of alternating black spots which run the length of
the body between, and somewhat on, the yellow stripes. The background color between the
stripes is a dusky gray, green or brown, compared to the black or occasionally dark green
found in the Common Garter Snake. The ventral surface has a series of dark black/bro\\'n
blotches which may cover most of the surface. All black, presumably melanistic, individuals
are occasionally found near Townsend. The dorsal scales are keeled and there are normally 8
upper labial scales.
Young: The coloration of young snakes is similar to that of the adults; young are live-bom.

Similar species: See Common Garter Snake.

Habitat and Habits: The habitat and habits of the Western Terrestrial Garter Snake are similar to
the Common Garter Snake, i.e., they are found in most habitats but are particularly common
around wetlands. In the HNF area the species was found between 3450 ft in the valley
bottom and 6200 ft near McDonald Pass, but probably occurs higher. Females give birth to
4-19 young during the summer (Stebbins 1985).

Surveying: Timed sight surveys may be conducted around wetlands and riparian feeding areas or
at denning areas where higher concentrations of garter snakes occur; clear mornings are the
best survey times. Much distributional information may come from recording incidental
sightings. More intensive research may be done using funnel traps in combination with drift
fences. More intensive research and survey projects may use mark-recapture or
radiotelemetry techniques.

Status: Western Terrestrial Garter Snakes were found in the main Rocky Mountains and Big Belt
Mountains on the HNF; there are also historic locations just off the forest at the base of the
Elkhom Mountains. Given the small number of recent records from tliroughout the area, all
records should be documented until the distribution is better understood; of particular interest
would be documentation of denning sites. Sightings of elegans from the Elkliom Mountains
should be documented to confinii their presence in that range.

Montana Natural Heritage Program Rank: G5 S5.

Common Garter Snake {Thamnophis sirtalis)

Description: The Common Garter Snake consists of two color phases in western Montana, both
ranging from 1 8-52" in length. Both phases have tliree yellow longitudinal stripes: one
located dorsally and one on each side on the 2nd and 3rd scale rows above the belly scales.
Between the yellow stripes is a black (or dark green) background, broken with red spots in
one color phase but lacking red in the other. Ventral coloration varies from yellow to bluish,
and some individuals of the red-sided color phase have small black spots on the edge of the
ventral scales. The dorsal scales are keeled, and normally there are 7 upper labial scales.
Young: The coloration of young snakes is similar to that of the adults; young are live-born.

Similar species: The Western Terrestrial Garter Snake has black spots overlapping the dorsal
yellow stripe; the background color between stripes tends to be paler dusky green, gray or
browTi. The Plains Garter Snake has the side yellow stripe on the 3rd and 4th scale rows
above the belly scales and the dorsal stripe is often orange or red.

Habitat and Habits: Garter snakes are found in all forest habitats but are more common at lower
elevations around marsh-bog-pond situations, where they prey on young fish, frogs, toads,
mice and invertebrates. They are sometimes confused with water snakes because of their
frequent aquatic exploits, but there are no true water snakes in Montana. Typical of most
garter snakes, they emit a noxious secretion when handled and can be aggressive when
disturbed. The Common Garter Snake was reported at two locations in 1995, both about
5600 feet, on the HNF by A. Harper and S. Hendrickson; historically they have also been
found at low elevations in the intermountain valleys. Garter snakes eat a variety of
vertebrates and invertebrates, with the Common Garter Snake concentrating more on
amphibians than the Western Terrestrial Garter Snake. The Common Garter Snake is a live-
bearer giving birth to 12-18 young during the summer in Colorado (Hammerson 1982a).

Surveying: Timed-sight surx'eys may be conducted around wetlands and riparian feeding areas or
at denning areas where higher concentrations of garter snakes occur; clear mornings are the
best survey times. Much distributional information may come from recording incidental
sightings. More intensive research may be done using funnel traps in combination with drift
fences. More intensive research and survey projects may use mark-recapture or
radiotelemetry tecliniques.

Status: Common Garter Snakes were found in the Rocky Mountains and Elkhom Mountains on
the HNF. There is also a historic record of them from the valley between the two locations.
Given the small number of records from throughout the area, all records should be
documented until the distribution is better understood; of particular interest would be
documentation of denning sites. Sightings of sirtalis from the Big Belt Mountains and Rocky
Mountains north of McDonald Pass should be documented to confirm their presence in those
areas. Only the red-sided color phase has observed in this area, however the color phase
lacking red spots should be watched for. The Common Garter Snake is much less abundant
than the Western Terrestrial Garter Snake in this area, as it is currently in northwestern
Montana.

Montana Natural Heritage Program Rank: G5 S4.

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Species Potentially Present on the Helena National Forest

Western Chorus Frog (Pseudacris thseriata)

Description: Adults are very small (0.75-1 .5") and have tiny, almost unnoticeable toe pads.

They have a dark line extending from the snout thiough the eye to the groin. Basic coloration
is quite variable with the background color being green, brown, gray, or reddish. Typically 3-
5 dark longitudinal stripes ai-e present on the head and back which may be broken up into
spots on some individuals.

Eggs and Tadpoles: Eggs are laid in small clusters of 10-100, usually less than 1" across and
attached to submerged vegetation (Wheeler and Wheeler 1966, Baxter and Stone 1985).
Individual eggs are about 1 mni in diameter. Tadpoles are brown/bronze and the eyes are
located on the sides of the head.

Similar species: Pacific Chorus Frogs {Pseudacris regilla) have obvious toe pads and an eye
stripe ending at the shoulder. Recently metamorphosed Ranid frogs could be confused with
this species but the coloration differs and the tiny toe pads are lacking (often visible only with
a magnifying glass on small chorus frogs).

Habitat and Habits: Western Chorus Frogs are regularly found in the water only during the
breeding period in spring. Their presence is obvious during this time due to their call which
is given frequently at night and sporadically throughout the day. Following breeding, these
frogs move into adjacent uplands and are rarely seen. In eastern Montana they breed in
temporary ponds and small lakes surrounded by prairie; in some locations in Montana they
are also found in open forested habitats. Eggs hatch in about 2 weeks and tadpoles are about
2 months old at metamorphosis (Wlieeler and Wheeler 1966, Nussbaum et al. 1983).

Surveying: Aduhs are easily sur\'eyed for, using their calls for identification during the breeding
season in the spring and early summer. During the breeding season, adults may also be seen
in the water, but their small size and habit of freezing or diving when disturbed makes
observation difficult; night surveys may be more productive. Egg masses are difficult to find.
Tadpoles may be seen in ponds during the day and can be sampled with a dipnet.

Status: Common tliroughout the prairies of eastern Montana. Two reports of Western Chorus
Frogs were received for the HNF. One report was from the vicinity of McDonald Pass and
the other from a cow pond in the upper Jackson Creek drainage of the Elkhorn Mountains
(Appendix 4); given the distance from other known locations and unusual habitat, these
report should be treated as hypothetical until verified. It seems possible that Western Chorus
Frogs will eventually be verified from the lower elevations of the HNF. The most likely
locations would be the extreme northeastern portion of the main Rocky Mountains east of
Lincoln, the east side of the Big Belts, or the Dry Range.

Montana Natural Heritage Program rank: 05 S5.

Woodhouse's Toad {Bitfo woodhousii)

Description: Adults have dry skin with small warts, and are gray, brown, or olive-green with
paler mottling or spots. A prominent white or yellowish line runs down the center of the
back; very young transformed toads typically lack the dorsal line, and the warts are often red-
brown in color. Woodhouse's Toad has parallel cranial crests between the eyes and post-
orbital crests connecting to them at a right angle behind the eyes; the post-orbital crests
typically touch the parotoid glands. If a lump-like boss is present on the snout, it does not
extend back between the eyes. The pupils are horizontal. The adult has two black tubercles
on the hind feet and a body length of 2.5-4".
Eggs and Tadpoles: Similar to those of the Western Toad.

Similar species: The Western Toad lacks cranial crests. The Great Plains Toad has large, white-
bordered, dark, dorsal blotches. The Canadian Toad has a lump between the eyes; frequently
the parotoid gland is separated from the post-orbital crest which may be broken or absent.
NOTE: It is very difficult to distinguish among the four Montana toad species eggs, larvae,
and recently-transformed toadlets.

Habitat and Habits: Adults are partially terrestrial but often found near water. They are usually
found in irrigated agricultural areas and flood plains, rather than the more upland areas used
by Great Plains Toads (Bragg 1940, Timkin and Dunlap 1965, Black 1970). They are most
active at night, although they may at times be found feeding during the day (Hammerson
1982a). They typically breed in permanent lakes, ponds, reservoirs, and slow streams, with a
preference for shallow areas with mud bottoms (Black 1970, Hammerson 1982a, Baxter and
Stone 1985). Breeding and egg laying is spread out over the spring and early summer, with
knowTi dates from Montana ranging from 4 May to 1 July (Black 1970).

Surveying: Adults may easily be found by using their loud calls for identification on warm (>54°
F) nights; calling peaks during the first few hours after sunset (Hammerson 1982a). "Road
hunting" on warm nights may also be effective. Eggs and tadpoles are seen in ponds during
the day and can be sampled with a dipnet; however, identification of toad eggs and tadpoles
is difficult or impossible in the field.

Status: Woodhouse's Toad is relatively common in southeastern Montana, however, its status
elsewhere in the state is unclear. A tadpole, reported as Woodhouse's Toad, present in the
Montana State University Museum was collected at the mouth of Trout Creek on the
Missouri River in 1948; it should be treated as hypothetical, until verified, given the
difficulty identifying Bnfo tadpoles and the long distance to the nearest record. Geographic
and habitat relationships with other toads in Montana are not well known. It should be
watched for at low elevations in prairie or shrub-steppe habitat on the HNF; it could occur
along the Missouri Ri\'er. Any located on the HNF should be well documented with a
description indicating how the species was differentiated.

Montana Natural Heritage Program rank: G5 S4.

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Plains Spadefoot {Scaphiopus [=Spea] bombifrons)

Description: Adults are colored gray or brown with darker mottling on the back and a white
belly. Some individuals have indistinct longitudinal streaking. The pupils of the Plains
Spadefoot are vertically elliptical and there is a high, hard lump between the eyes. Its skin is
less warty than true toads. The adult has a single tubercle on the hind feet and has a body
length of less than 2.5".

Eggs and Tadpoles: Oval egg masses of 10-250 eggs are attached to underwater plants or
debris. Tadpoles are mottled sooty and olive-yellow above and paler below with gold
metallic flecking over all; iris is gold.

Similar species: Other Montana frogs and toads have round or horizontally elliptical pupils.

Habitat and Habits: Adults are found in grassland and sagebrush areas, particularly in areas with
sandy or loose soil (Wheeler and Wheeler 1966, Hammerson 1982a, Baxter and Stone 1985).
Except during breeding, they are seldom found in the water. They are primarily nocturnal
and emerge from their burrows only following heavy rains. They breed in shallow temporary
pools usually following heavy spring or summer rains (Hammerson 1982a). Males call
loudly, with groups being heard for up to a mile. Eggs hatch after 2-3 days and tadpoles
transforai in 6-10 weeks (Wheeler and Wheeler 1966, Hammerson 1982a).

Surveying: Adults may be easily found by using their calls for identification when breeding at
night or by "road hunting" on wann, rainy nights. Calling normally takes place only when the
temperature is >50° F (Hammerson 1982). Tadpoles are seen in ponds during the day and
can be sampled with a dipnet. Surveying is complicated by the long time periods which this
species spends underground, especially during droughts.

Status: The Plains Spadefoot is not known from ITNF lands; the nearest record is from Helena in
1988. Locally common in eastern Montana; there are large gaps in the known range. It
should be watched for at low elevations in prairie or shrub-steppe habitat on the HNF. Any
located on the HNF should be well-documented.

Montana Natural Heritage Program rank: G5 S4?

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Northern Leopard Frog {Rana pipiens)

Description: Adults are brown or green with large, dark spots surrounded by light-colored halos
on the sides and back. The dorso-latcral folds (ridges along the sides of the back) are usually
lighter in color that the surrounding background. The under-side is typically white, but may
be cream-colored or yellowish. The adult has a body length of 2-5". Newly transformed
froglets may lack spots and are about 1" in length (Leonard et al. 1993).
Eggs and Tadpoles: Eggs are laid in 2-5" globular masses composed of hundreds to
thousands of eggs (Hammerson 1982a, Nussbaum et al. 1983). The tadpoles are brown to
dark browTi on top with some metallic flecking, whereas the underside is often nearly
transparent (Nussbaum et al 1983). Total length of tadpoles may reach more than 3"; the
eyes are located on top of the head.

Similar species: None, although some newly-transformed froglets may lack spots, which makes
them extremely difficult to distinguish from Spotted and Wood Frogs.

Habitat and Habits: Northern Leopard Frogs are found in or near water in non-forested habitats.
Vegetation is typically dense, as in a cattail marsh or dense sedge-meadow. Breeding takes
place in lakes, ponds (temporary and permanent), springs, and occasionally backwaters or
beaver ponds in streams. In Colorado, eggs hatch in 4-15 days and tadpoles take 8-15 weeks
to metamorphose, depending on water temperature (Hammerson 1982a).

Surveying: Both adults, tadpoles, and eggs are easily seen in and along the water during the day
and can be sampled with a dipnet; adults may also be captured by hand. At very low
densities adults may be difficult to find and may be detected using a call recorder. Tadpoles
are difficult to tell from those of the Spotted Frog in areas where the two species may
overlap.

Status: Historically, the Northern Leopard Frog was widespread in Montana but it now appears
to be extinct tliroughout much of the western part of the state. It is still common and
widespread in the southeastern comer of the state, but it may be declining in central and
northeastern Montana. It appears that only localized populations are present on the western
edge of the plains. A single report of this frog is known from the HNF; an obsers'ation of one
was made near McDonald Pass in 1994. Given the recent declines in this species and the
unusual habitat, this record should be treated as hypothetical until verified. Several other
records exist from near HNF lands at lower elevations. The most recent record was of a few
individuals seen at the Deepdale Fishing Access south of Townsend in 1994; however,
despite three surveys, none were seen in 1995. Due to its significant decline and lack of
current reports from the HNF, all sightings of this species should be documented.

Northern Leopard Frogs are now absent from many other areas in North America where
they were common a few decades ago. Widespread extinctions are known from Alberta
(Koonz 1993), Wyoming (Koch and Peterson 1995), Colorado (Hammerson 1982b, Corn and
Fogelman 1984), Idaho (Groves and Peterson 1992), Washington, and Oregon (Leonard et al.
1993). Bullfrog and fish introductions, acid rain, ozone depletion, immune system
suppression, and "Postmetamorphic Death Syndrome" have all been suggested as causes for
frog extirpations in other areas (Com and Fogelman 1984, Hammerson 1982b, Carey 1993,
Leonard e/o/. 1993).

Montana Natural Heritage Program ranJ<:: G4 S3S4.

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Painted Turtle {Chrysemys picta)

Description: Adult Painted Turtles have a relatively flat dorsal shell, or carapace, the length of
which may reach 9" in females and 7" in males. The background color of the shell may be
dark brown, olive, or black. A series of short, irregular yellow lines are often scattered across
the shell, and a red and black border forms the outer edge. The ventral shell, or plastron, is
red with a centrally-located yellow and black blotch with edges flaring out along the border
of the scutes. The edge of the plastron also has a series of black and yellow blotches. The
head, neck, and legs are marked with yellow lines and a red spot appears behind the eye.
Very dark colored individuals are occasionally found. Males are distinguished by longer
front claws and longer tails with the anus posterior to the margin of the carapace (Ernst et al.
1994).

Eggs and Young: The elliptical, white, soft-shelled eggs are about 28-35 mm in length and
16-23 mm in width (Ernst et al. 1994). They typically number 6-23 per clutch. Coloration of
young Painted Turtles is more vibrant and the shell is not quite as flattened as adults.

Similar Species: None.

Habitat and Habits: Painted Turtles are active during the day and are rarely seen far from ponds,
lakes, or the slow-moving water of streams. Adults are primarily herbivorous, feeding on a
variety of aquatic plants, but will also scavenge on animal remains. Eggs are usually laid
within 10-20 feet of the water's edge, although some individuals will travel up to 600 m
seeking a suitable site. During egg-laying, the female excavates a hole with her hind feet and
deposits the eggs, which are then covered by several inches of dirt. Predation on turtle eggs
by raccoons, skunks, etc. is common, and shell fragments are evidence of such activity.
Female Painted Turtles may lay more than one clutch of eggs each summer. Young borne of
late egg depositions overwinter in the nest and do not emerge until the following spring
(Ernst et al. 1994). Once females lay their eggs, they return to the pond, where they can often
be seen basking on logs or rocks along with juveniles and males. Painted Turtles are sexually
mature at 3-5 years of age and may live to be 30 years or older (Ernst et al. 1994).

Surveying: Although various turtle traps can be used for surveys, visual identification is suitable
for presence/absence studies since the three turtle species in Montana are easily
distinguished. Basking peaks at different times during the day, depending on season and
location; in the northern states and Canada it generally peaks in the morning. Surveys should
be done on sunny days with a pair of binoculars. During cold or cloudy weather, turtles tend
to remain underwater for long periods and can be missed on a walk-through survey.

Status: Painted Turtles are locally quite common in Montana at lower elevations. They were not
found on the HNF. However they are known from lower elevation areas on the plains
adjacent to the forest, and were reported within Va mile of the forest boundary by A. Harper
and S. Hendrickson (pers. comm.) in the western Elkhom Mountains. They probably occur
on the HNF at low elevations; any sightings should be documented. There has been some
concern about Painted Turtle populations nationally; whether declines have occurred in
Montana is unknown

Montana Natural Heritage Program Rank: G5 S5.

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Spiny Softshell {Trionyrx spiniferus) (=Apalone spinifera)

Description: Spiny Soft-shells have flexible, leathery shells. The carapace is olive-gray, marked
with dark spots. The plastron is white or light cream-colored. Female carapace length is up
to 18 inches or more, whereas males are typically 6-8 inches. The nostrils are terminal,
allowing this turtle to remain entirely beneath the surface and take air through its "snorkel."
Eggs and Young: The nest is a flask-shaped excavation containing 4-39 (typically 12-18)
hard-shelled, spherical, white eggs. The individual eggs range in size from 24-32 mm in
diameter and average about 28 mm. Hatchlings resemble adults and are 30-40 mm in shell
length (Ernst e/ a/. 1994).

Similar Species: None.

Habits and Habitat: Spiny Softshells are active during the day. This highly aquatic turtle is
found in rivers or their connecting backwaters with muddy or sandy bottoms. Unlike other
Montana turtles, they do not move overland from one water body to another. Mud and sand
banks and bars are used for both basking and nesting. Hibernation takes place beneath the
water, usually beneath 5-10 cm of bottom substrate (Ernst et al. 1994). The retracted head
and neck combines with the profile of the shell to produce a wedge shape, which allows this
turtle to escape by literally diving into the bottom mud. If necessaiy, additional strokes of the
legs will completely bury it in the substrate, hidden from view. Food items include fish,
crayfish, frogs, toads, aquatic insects, and carrion. Spiny Soft-shells have a surprisingly long,
agile neck and can inflict a painful bite. They can be safely handled by grasping the shell on
each side between the front and rear legs with the head pointing away from the captor.

Surveying: Although various turtle traps can be used for surveys, visual identification is suitable
since the three turtle species in Montana are easily distinguished . A pair of binoculars is
helpful and surveys should be done on warm sumiy days; basking seldom takes place before
10:00 a.m. (Ernst e/ a/. 1994). During cold or cloudy weather, turtles tend to remain
underwater for long periods and can be missed on a walk-through surv^ey. Care should be
taken to watch for the snorkel-like nostrils projecting just above the surface of the water.

Status and Distribution: Found mainly in the Yellowstone and Missouri Rivers and their major
tributaries. These populations may be separated from each other and are believed to be
disjunct form the population in South Dakota (Ernst et al. 1994); they have not been reported
from North Dakota (Wlieeler and Wheeler 1966). The Missouri River population is known
from the tail of Fort Peck Reservoir upstream to the first dam above, and from most of the
Mussellshell River; their presence on other tributaries is presently unknown. A specimen
was reported by Black (1970) from Canyon Ferry Resers'oir, however, no museum has
reported having one, nor have recent biologists in the area reported them here; it should be
treated as hypothetical given the long distance to the nearest record. Any located on the HNF
should be documented and reported. Considered a Species of Special Concern in Montana.

Montana Natural Heritage Program Rank: G5 S3. Species of Special Concern.

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Short-horned Lizard {Phrynosoma donglasi)

Description: The Short-homed lizard has a broad, somewhat flattened body and relatively short
limbs and tail. It is generally tan to gray with dark and light spots and blotches; the belly is
white. There is a distinctive line of pointed scales along each side, and the head has short,
blunt "horns" pointing backward. Adult lizards range from 1.7 - 5.5" in length.
Young: Young are live-bom and resemble small adults.

Similar species: None.

Habitat and Habits: The Short-homed lizard is found in a variety of habitats, including dry open
forests, grasslands, and sagebmsh; the soil is usually loose or sandy. In fimier soil situations,
it may use the burrows of other animals. It is active during the day, typically with the peak of
activity in mid-late moming. A Short-homed Lizard may squirt blood from its eyes when
disturbed. Little is known about reproduction in this part of the range; young are bom in late
summer. Ants are the primary food of the species.

Surveying: They may be surveyed for by slowly walking tlirough appropriate habitat and

watching carefijlly for them; look carefully near ant mounds; this teclinique has low success
with Short-homed Lizards however. As with many lizards and snakes, they are easily
missed. Carefully documented incidental observations may provide the best clues to their
distribution. They may be also taken in pitfall or funnel traps in combination with drift
fences.

Status: The Short-homed Lizard subspecies found in Montana {P. d. brevirostra) is currently a
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Category 2 Candidate species (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
1994). It is widely distributed (but apparently localized) in eastem Montana. There are no
records from the Helena National Forest, but there are records from the Three Forks area to
the south (Reichel and Flath 1995). The most likely places to find this species would be in
near the south ends of the Big Belt and Elkhom Mountains at low elevations. This species
may be vulnerable to collecting for the pet trade and agricultural conversion of native
habitats. It should be watched for in open pine, prairie, or shrub-steppe habitat with loose or
sandy soils; all sightings should be documented.

Montana Natural Heritage Program Rank: G5 S4. A Species of Special Concem.

Rubber Boa {Char via boltae)

Description: The Rubber Boa looks and feels like rubber, hence its name. It is a small snake
(14-33" length), stout, and uniformly-colored either brown or green on the dorsal side. The
ventral surface is cream to tan in color. The scales are small and smooth, except for those on
the head which are enlarged. The tail is short and blunt and the eyes are very small. It is a
very slow moving snake which can easily be caught if detected.

Young: Rubber Boas are born alive and young are more tan (or even pinkish) than the adults
on both the dorsal and ventral surfaces.

Similar species: The Racer is much quicker and more active, has larger eyes, and a thin, tapered
(not blunt) tail.

Habitat and Habits: The Rubber Boa is a secretive, slow-moving, docile snake, usually found
under logs and rocks in either moist or dry forest habitats, but rarely in marsh or bog
situations. Denning locations are typically in areas with fractured rock on south facing
slopes; recent data indicates it rarely moves more than a short distances from its den
(Peterson pers. comm). Occasionally this snake is seen sunning itself on a road, trail, or open
area, but it is primarily nocturnal. Feeding is primarily on small mice, but also on slirews,
salamanders, snakes and lizards. Two to eight young are bom alive in late summer or early
fall.

Surveying: There are no practical methods for surveying other than systematic searches of a
given area rolling over rocks, logs, etc. Driving roads at night, particularly after a rain when
the temperature is > 10° C, may be more effective, especially on roads which follow a stream.
Previous sightings are of value in locating general areas of activity and demiing sites. Funnel
traps may be effective.

Status: Sightings of Rubber Boas are infrequent, but they are widely distributed and probably
common throughout western Montana. They were not found during this surv-ey, nor are there
historic records of their presence definitely located on the HNF. However, a record from
Grizzly Gulch in 1994 may have been on the forest. They probably occur tliroughout the
Rocky Mountains of the HNF at low to mid-elevations. They should be watched for on the
HNF; any sightings should be documented. Of particular interest would be any reports of this
species from the Elkhom or Big Belt Mountains or documentation of any denning sites
located.

Montana Natural Heritage Program Rank: G5 S4.

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Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangidum)

Description: The Milk Snake is a slender and medium-sized snake (to 42 inches in length or
more), with smooth scales. It has a highly recognizable series of red to orange saddles or
rings that are bordered by black bands and separated by white or yellow bands. Width of
dark and light bands can \axy widely. The subspecies in Montana {L. t. gentilis) tends to be
paler, with orange bands replacing red, and a light belly with few or no black spots.

Similar species: None in Montana.

Habitat and Habits: Little is known of Milk Snakes in Montana because only a few have been
reported. In Wyoming and elsewhere they are usually found near cliffs, talus, outcrops, and
rocky hillsides in forested and open country. They can be found in or under rotten logs. Milk
Snakes are secretive and most active at night. They eat a variety of vertebrates, including
other snakes, lizards, eggs, small mammals, and sometimes invertebrates such as earthworms
and insects. Eggs are laid in mid-summer. Milk Snakes sometimes vibrate their tails when
disturbed. Their name stems from an old tale alleging that these snakes milk cows.

Surveying: Timed-sight sur\'eys may be conducted around cliff bases and outcrops; turning over
rocks in these areas may be very effective in May and early June (L. Vitt, pers. comm.). Most
distributional information will likely come from recording incidental sightings.. More
intensive research may be done using funnel traps in combination with drift fences. The most
intensive research and sur\'ey projects may use mark-recapture or radio-telemetry techniques.

Status: Milk Snakes are very rare and local in Montana. There are no records from the Helena
National Forest, but there are records from the Three Forks area to the south (Reichel and
Flath 1995). The most likely places to find this species would be in rocky canyons on the
south ends of the Big Belt and Elkhom Mountains. The subspecies found in Montana is
highly sought for the pet trade. All records of Milk Snakes should be fully documented; of
particular interest would be documentation of denning sites.

Montana Natural Heritage Program Rank: G5 S2. A Species of Special Concern.

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Gopher Snake {PiUwphis catenifer f^DielanoleucusJ)

Description: Montana's largest snake, the adult Gopher Snake (also called Bullsnake or Pine
Snake) can reach a total length of 7 feet, but most specimens seen in western Montana range
between 3-5 feet. It is readily recognized by a series of large black to brown blotches which
run down the back, and another series along the sides. The blotches, which are set on a
yellow background, become more widely spaced and darker towards the tail. The dorsal
scales are keeled. There is usually a black band on the head located in front of and extending
below the eyes. The ventral coloration is yellow to white, often spotted with black, and the
anal plate is undivided.

Eggs and Young: Gopher Snakes lay bet\\'een 2-24 eggs during the summer months
(Hammerson 1982a), and the young resemble the adults in coloration.

Similar species: Young Racers have a black border on dark blotches and the scales are not

keeled. Young Western Hognose Snakes have an upturned nose. Western Rattlesnakes have
a rattle on their tail and triangular shaped heads.

Habitat and Habits: Gopher Snakes are associated with dry, arid habitats including grassland,
slirub-steppe, and open pine forest. They feed on rodents, rabbits and ground dwelling birds,
and to a lesser extent on frogs, toads, etc., found around stock ponds and other wetlands.
They have a habit of hissing and vibrating the tail when alarmed, often sounding like
rattlesnakes. They occasionally climb trees, hence the common name "Pine Snake."

Surveying: Walk-through surveys, done on a regular basis in warm, sunny weather probably
give the best results without resorting to trapping techniques. They are most easily found
near dens in the spring and fall. Funnel trapping is effective and they may occasionally be
found by night driving during the mid-summer. Data can be enhanced by mark-recapture
techniques.

Status: The Gopher Snake was not seen in this survey nor are there historic records from the
HNF. However they are known from lower elevation areas on the plains adjacent to the
forest, and were reported within V* mile of the forest boundary by A. Harper and S.
Hendrickson (pers. comm.) in the western Big Belt Mountains. They almost certainly occur
on the HNF at low to mid-elevations; any sightings should be documented. Of particular
interest would be documentation of any denning sites located.

Montana Natural Heritage Program Rank: G5 S5.

Western Rattlesnake {Crotalus viridis)

Description: Rattlesnakes have a heat-sensing pit located between the nostril and the eye. The
fangs are hollow and hinged, allowing them to be folded back against the roof of the mouth.
The head is triangular in shape and blunt-nosed. The eyes are slightly elevated. There are
several white lines which run along the side of the head. Adult Western Rattlesnakes have a
narrow neck but a stout body with total length ranging from 15-60 inches. The dorsal
background color varies from pale green to brown with a series of brown or black blotches
edged with a dark and then light line extending the length of the body. The blotches often
merge into rings on the tail. There are also blotches on the sides of the body. The ventral
side is pale yellow to white and without blotches. The scales are keeled. The tail ends in a
rattle which helps to warn potential predators of the snake's presence. The young have the
same color pattern, but are brighter in color than adults.

Similar species: No other snake in Montana has rattles, but see Racer, Gopher Snake and
Western Hognose Snake which may have similar color patterns.

Habitat and Habits: The Western Rattlesnake is an inhabitant of more open and arid country but
it is also found in Ponderosa pine stands or mixed grass-coniferous forests. It is more likely
to be encountered on south-facing slopes and areas of rock outcrops. It is feared and often
needlessly killed due to its poisonous bite. Rattlesnakes may den in large numbers, moving
up to 7 miles out from the dens during the summer (Peterson, pers. comm.); den sites are
most common in south-facing talus slopes. In Wyoming, it is found up to elevations of over
8500 feet (Baxter and Stone 1985). Rattlesnakes prey on a variety of animals including mice,
ground squirrels, rabbits, amphibians, and other snakes. In Colorado, females give birth to 4-
21 young during the summer (Hammerson 1982a).

Surveying: A walk-through survey on a warm sunny day is probably the best method for
determining presence/absence; it is easiest to find near den sites in spring and fall. Funnel
traps and night driving are both effective techniques. Mark-recapture methods can be used
to determine more precise numbers.

Status: The Western Rattlesnake was not been found in the HNF but is known from lower
elevation areas to the north, south, east and the valleys between the mountain ranges. It
would most likely be encountered at lower elevations in open habitats. The habit of denning
at traditional sites in large numbers makes rattlesnakes vulnerable to commercial collecting
or simply killing by fearfial people. Observations of Western Rattlesnakes should be reported
to document the presence of this species on the HNF; of particular interest would be
documentation of any denning sites located.

Montana Natural Heritage Program Rank: G5 S4.

Regional Information

Rocky Mountain chain: The Tailed frog was only reported from the main Rocky Mountain
range of the HNF in the Lincoln District. It appears to be more localized on the HNF than in
areas to the west and north. It is not known on the HNF to the south of the Blackfoot River.
Electro-shocking fish surveys should be used to determine how widespread this species is; all
incidental observations should be recorded.

Other species found during sur\'eys, or for which historic locations are known, on the Rocky
Mountains of the HNF include the: Long-toed Salamander, Western Toad, Spotted Frog, Racer,
Western Terrestrial Garter Snake, and Common Garter Snake. All of these species are also
present in the Elkliom and/or the Big Belt Mountains. The Western Toad was only found
breeding at two locations on the forest; this may be a function of the small amount of sampling or
the apparent decline in much of western Montana. Both breeding locations should be considered
for monitoring to see if Western Toads continue to breed at them and are successfully reaching
metamorphosis. Substantial populations of the Spotted Frog were found throughout the range; it
was more commonly encountered than any other amphibian or reptile, though ironically it is one
of the two C-2 Candidate species present on the HNF. A beaver pond area on a tributary of
Beaver Creek might be considered for long-term monitoring of Spotted Frogs and Long-toed
Salamanders; it currently has very large populations of both species. Concerned citizens might be
willing to participate in long-term surveys. The Racer was not found during our surveys; the
only historic records for the Rocky Mountains on the HNF are from Davis (1963), which is a
large-scale state map with dots which appear to fall on the Forest. The Western Ten-estrial
Garter Snake appears to be the most common reptile on the forest. It is perhaps 2-5 times as
conmion as the Common Garter Snake, which may be undergoing a decline in Montana, Idaho,
and elsewhere.

Given the low numbers of locations for any amphibians or reptiles on the PINF, all sightings
of any species should be recorded. A possible exception would be for Spotted Frogs; however,
breeding locations found should be recorded even for this species until more are known and
mapped. Of particular interest would be records of the following species which have not yet
been recorded on the Forest: Western Chorus Frog. Plains Spadefoot, Northern Leopard Frog,
Painted Turtle, Rubber Boa, Gopher Snake, and Western Rattlesnake. All of these potentially
present species, except the Rubber Boa, are most likely to be seen at low elevations in open
habitat. Additionally, the reported sites for Northern Leopard Frog and Western Chorus Frog
near McDonald Pass should be revisited.

Elkhorn Mountains: No species were restricted to the Elkhom Mountains. The Long-toed
Salamander is found in the northv.estem part of the Elkhoms, the farthest east reported location
in its range. The Elkliorns are the only isolated mountain range east of the Continental Divide
where this species is found. Given this unique situation, the distribution should be carefully
mapped.

Other species found during surv'eys, or for which historic locations are known, in the Elkliom
Mountains on the HNF include the Spotted Frog and Common Garter Snake. Both of these
species are also present in the niain R.ock>' and/or the Big Belt Mountains. Substantial

populations of the Spotted Frog were found throughout the range; it was more commonly
encountered than any other amphibian or reptile, though ironically it is one of the two C-2
Candidate species present on the HNF. The Corrmion Garter Snake is known from a single
location.

The Western Toad was collected along Prickley Pear Creek in Jefferson County in 1951.
\Vhether or not this was located on the HNF is unknown; it was not located during our surveys.
Perhaps the best chance of finding the Milk Snake on the HNF occurs in the southeastern
Elkhorns, given a known site to the south near Tlaree Forks and its secretive habits. It seem
doubtful that the Tailed Frog is found in the Elkliom Mountains given the intensity of surveys
(A. Harper, pers. comm.), and the surveyors specifically watching for the species, during the
summer of 1995.

Given the meager information available from this range, and the Western Toad (known to be
declining) recorded from historic records but not relocated, all sightings of amphibians and
reptiles are of interest from this range and should be recorded. More baseline distribution
infonnation, particularly for species not yet recorded and breeding sites for known species, is
necessary before monitoring sites are chosen.

Big Belt Mountains: The only species reported from the Big Belt Mountains on the HNF were
the Spotted Frog, Racer, and Western Terrestrial Garter Snake. While Spotted Frogs appeared to
be common and widespread in this range, they did appear more localized than in either the
Elkhorns or main Rocky Mountains. The Racer was not found during our surveys; the only
historic records for the Rocky Mountains on the HNF are from Davis (1963), which is a large-
scale state map with dots which appear to fall on the Forest. The Western Terrestrial Garter
Snake was found at two locations and is probably wide-spread in the range.

The Western Toad was collected historically just east of the HNF in the Big Belts, but was
not located during our sur\'eys. Perhaps the best chance of finding the Spiny Softshell or
Woodhouse's Toad on the HNF occurs in the Missouri River; both have questionable historic
records there. Given the meager information available from this range, and at least one species
known from historic records but not relocated, all sightings of amphibians (except perhaps
Spotted Frogs) and reptiles are of interest and should be recorded. Even for Spotted Frogs any
breeding locations found should be recorded. Such baseline distribution information is necessary
before monitoring sites are chosen.

Dry Range: No herps are known from this range; there are no historic specimen records and we
did not sur\'ey in the range in 1995. Given the total lack of information available from this range,
all sightings of amphibians and reptiles are of interest and should be recorded. Baseline
distribution information is necessary before monitoring sites are chosen.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Surveys. Monitoring and Research

1) All incidental sightings of amphibians and reptiles from the HNF should be recorded and
forwarded to the Natural Heritage Program, which is the central depository for amphibian survey
and monitoring data from Montana in cooperation with the regional Declining Amphibian Task
Force. For the Spotted Frog, only breeding locations are necessary to record. A half-day training
session for biologists (including seasonal employees) and other interested field people in May
would raise awareness of this data need, and provide the training required for accurate
identification of animals observed.

2) Special efforts should be made to increase our knowledge of the range and biology of those
species which are either uncommon (Tailed Frog, Western Toad) or for which no records exist
within the Forest (Western Chorus Frog, Woodhouse's Toad, Plains Spadefoot, Northern
Leopard Frog, Painted Turtle, Spiny Softshell, Short-homed Lizard, Rubber Boa, Milk Snake,
Gopher Snake, and Prairie Rattlesnake). One of the most efficient ways of accomplishing these
objectives is to encourage individuals to fill out incidental sighting reports and submit them to
the Montana Natural Heritage Program for entry into the species database. Certainly all Tailed
Frogs (larvae and adults) found during fisheries surveys should be recorded; this is the most
efficient way to get data on this species.

3) Due to the time constraints and the large area covered in the 1995 survey, it should not be
regarded as a definitive index of all the herptiles or their distribution on the HNF. The secretive
habits of many amphibians and reptiles, and our lack of knowledge regarding their reproductive
behavior makes it difficult to assess their overall status. We recommend that additional surveys
be conducted, concentrating on: A) potential Western Toad and Northern Leopard Frog breeding
sites; B) low-elevation, xeric habitats (including wetlands within this matrix) for reptiles and
plains-dwelling amphibians; and C) gathering additional distribution information from the Big
Belt, Elkhom and Dry ranges.

4) Begin a monitoring program, surs'eying the two known Western Frog breeding sites, and the
beaver pond on a tributary of Beaver Creek where large numbers of Spotted Frogs and Long-toed
Salamanders breed. This should be a twice-yearly monitoring, once in late spring to determine if
breeding took place and once in mid-late summer to check if larva are successfully transforming.
Monitoring of Tailed Frogs could be done in conjunction with fish monitoring by electro-
shocking, when sites are more well kno\Mi. When more breeding locations for amphibians are
known in the Elkhorns and Big Belts, long-term monitoring of typical marsh-pond habitats
should be set up at several sites in order to evaluate relative numbers and breeding success of the
more common species: Long-toed Salamander, Spotted Frog, Western Toad, Western Terrestrial
Garter Snake, and Common Garter Snake. Particular attention needs to be given to any Western
Toad and Northern Leopard Frog breeding sites found.

5) Life history and ecology of the amphibians in Montana is poorly known for most species.
Long-term monitoring will provide information on timing of, and habitat requirements needed
for, successflil breeding.

6) We recommend that any areas that are under consideration for mining, road building,
extensive logging operations, or other large-scale habitat altering activities be surveyed
thoroughly for amphibian presence and breeding activity. Particular attention should be given
documenting the presence of either Western Toads or Northern Leopard Frogs. This is
particularly important for toads in higher elevation areas where the potential for UV damage is
greater.

Management

1) With an increasing number of amphibian species declining for various reasons, it seems
reasonable to pro-actively manage habitat to support them. While not all ways of preserving
these species are currently known, several management activities could certainly negatively
impact them. Without adequate breeding areas, amphibians cannot survive, and the types of
water used is often species-specific.

a) Fish stocking in currently fishless lakes and ponds in which amphibians breed should be
carefully evaluated. Fish introductions are thought to be a major factor in frog declines in
the Sierra Nevada Mountains and probably elsewhere as well (Hayes and Jennings 1986).

b) When "improving" springs or seeps for livestock, leave a portion of the area suitable for
amphibian reproduction. This could include a small fenced-off area above where water is
diverted for storage in a watering tank.

c) Springs, seeps, and both permanent and temporary ponds should be considered when
analyzing effects of land management activities such as grazing, logging, and road
building.

2) A critical component of the life cycle in snakes is the wintering den. Many species hibernate
in large aggregations in traditionally-used sites. Often these hibemacula are used by several
species, and mating for many species takes place at the den site. Snakes then move out for up to
7 miles for the summer, returning in the fall. These sites are typically in areas where snakes can
get well down into an area of fractured rock on south-facing slopes, often near cliffs or in talus.
While these sites are robust, road building or mining may nonetheless destroy them. Den sites
should be protected and data relating to their locations kept where successive biologists have
access to them.

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APPENDIX 1.

DATA SHEETS USED FOR

AMPHIBIAN AND REPTILE

SURVEYS AND OBSERVATIONS

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(drd« ch04C« for »h*d«d variabl«a; supply v*Jue lot oth«n) (vor. 2/7/92)

DATE

BEGIN
TIME

END
TIME

OBSERVERS

LOCAUTY

STATE

COUNTY

MAP

NAME

OWNER

ELEVATION
(circle tcaJe)

M
FT

SECTION
DESCRIPTION

UTM
ZONE

NORTHING
(Of LAT)

EASTING
(M LOfJl

AMPHIBIAN AND/OR GARTER SNAKE SPEOES PRESENT
(INDICATE NUMBERS IN CATEGORIES IF POSSIBLE)

CmCL£ METHOD AND 1^CMCATE tP
VOUCHER SPEOMBJ WAS COUJECTED

SPECIES

ADULTS/JUVENILES

CALUNG?

TADPOLES/LARVAE

EGG MASSES

METHOD:

VISUAL^AURAL ID DIP NET/SEINE
HAND COLLECTED TRAPPED
VOUCHER COLLECTED? YES NO

VISUAUAUFIAL ID DIP NET/SBNE
HAND COLLECTED TRAPPED
VOUCHER COLLECTED? YES NO

VISUAL/AUFl&L ID DIP NET /SEINE
HAND COLLECTED TRAPPED
VOUCHER COLLECTED? YES NO

VISUAUAURAL ID DIP NET/SEINE
HAND COLLECTED TRA.-PED
VOUCHER COLLECTED? YES NO

VISUAUAURAL ID DIP NET/SEINE
HAND COLLECTED TRAPPED
VOUCHER COLLECTED? YES NO

FISH PRESENT?

YES

?7?

FISH

SPECIES:

ENTIRE SITE
SEARCHED?

IF NO. INDICATE
AREA

METERS OF SHOREUNE
KP Of HABTTAT

PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL ENVIRONMENT (CHEMISTRY VARIABLES OPTIONAL - USE EXTFW. SPACES FOR ADDITIONAL MEASUREMENTS)

WEATHER:

CLEAR

OVERCAST

RAIN

SNOW

CALM

UGHT

STRONG

AIRTEKff"

Idrcl* icalfl)

WATER TEMP

(circle icttle)

COLOR;

CLEAR

STAINED

TURBIDITY:

aJEAH

CLOUDY

ANC

SITE DESCFUPTIONS • (SKETCH SITE AND PUT AIXMTIONAL COMMENTS ON BACK OF SHETH
OMfT THIS SECTION IF DATA HAVE BEEN COLi£CTED ON A PFIEVIOUS VISIT

NATUFIAL

MAN-MADE

DRAINAGE;

PERMANENT

OCCASIONAL

NONE

DESCRIPTION;

PERJAlkNENT
LAKE/POND

TEMPORARY
LAKE/POND

MARSH /BOG

STREAM

SPRING/SEEP

ACTIVE
BEAVER POND

INACTIVE
BEAVER POND

SITE
LENGTH (Ml

SITE
WIDTH (Ml

MAXIMUM DEPTH:

< 1 M

1 - 2 M

> 2 M

STREAM ORDER

5 +

PRIKAARY SUBSTRATE:

SILT/MUD

SAND/GRAVEL

COBBLE

BOULDEF.'EEDROCK

OTHER

% OF POfJD LAKE lAARGIN WITH EMERGENT VEGETATIOtJ:

1 - 25

25 -50

> 50

EMERGENT VEGETATION SPECIES
(UST l^' ORDER OF ABUNDANCE!

NORTH SHOF£UNE CHARACTERS;

E:4ALL0WS
PRESENT

SHALLOWS
AESEKT

E'v?erg£i;t veg

PrUlSENT

i?\GENT ViG
/ SScNT

DISTANCE (M) TO FOREST EDGE

FOREST TREE
SPECIES;

ROUGH SKETCH OF SITE

GRID SPACING IS METERS BFPA/EEN LINES

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Natural Heritage Rare Animal Species Reporting Form

This form is used to report a personal field sighting of a rare species tracked by the Montana Natural Heritage
^fcrogram. It may also be used to summarize locational information from a published or unpublished report. Animal
^^pecies tracked include those on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Threatened, Endangered or Candidate Lists, the
U.S. Forest Service Sensitive List, the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks Species of Special Interest or
Concern List, and the Heritage Program Animal Species of Special Concern List. The Heritage Program can provide
a copy of the list upon request. For most bird species, only reports of confirmed breeding are requested.

In order for this form to be processed, the sections preceded by two asterisks (**) must be completed.

Send completed form to: Montana Natural Heritage Program, 1515 E 6th Ave., PO Box 201800, Helena MT 59620.

Scientific Name **Common Name

Location:

Location Map: A mapped location of the occurrence should accompany this form. The ideal format is to locate the
site on a photocopied section of a USGS 7.5 minute topo map; Forest Service, BLM, or other maps may be used. Be
sure to provide the name of the map.

County: Township: Range: Section:

•'Directions to Site: Describe in detail how to get to the site from a readily located permanent landmark such as a
road intersection.

iology/Habitat

*Date and Approximate Time of the Observation:

•*Niimber of Individuals Observed:

D 1-5 0 5-10 D 11-50 D 51-100 D 101-1000 Q > 1000

If possible, provide the exact number of individuals:

Life Stages Present: Check off the life stages observed or provide an estimate of the numbers of individuals for
each Hfe stage:

eggs larvae immature adult female adult male adult, sex unknown

Comments:

Additional Status Information: What else was observed? Provide information on the behavior of the species
particularly that which could indicate or confirm breeding at the site. For birds this could include singing males,
carrying nest material/food, dependant young observed, entry of adults into possible nesting cavity, etc.

Associated Species: List any asr-ociated species such as predators, prey, food plants, host species, or additional rare
""tecies observed at the site.

*= Required Fiald

Habitat Data: Describe the general area where the occurrence is located. List community types, dominant
vegetation, and information on the physical environment such as substrate type, hydrology, moisture regime, slope,
elevation, and aspect. Also, if possible, provide information on the surrounding land use and extent of additional
kitable habitat.

Weather Conditions:

n clear D overcast D calm O vnndy

Describe temperature, precipitation, and other significant weather factors:

Conservation: Are there any natural or human threats to this occurrence? Please describe.

Ownership: If known, please provide landowner name, address and telephone number.

Jnformation Source:

Jame, Address, and Telephone Number (of person filing report)

'♦Does this information come from □ a field visit, D a 2nd party observation, or □ a published or unpublished report?

Citation: For information taken from a published or unpublished report, please provide a copy of the cover page and
pertinent portions of the report. If a copy cannot be provided, list below the author, date, title, publisher, and page
numbers.

Voucher: Was the observation vouchered with n a photograph? Q a specimen?

If possible, attach a copy of the photograph. If specimen voucher, please provide the collection # and name of the

repository:

Identification: How was the species identification made? Was it based on a sighting, track, call, scat, road kill, etc.?
Name the identification manual(s) used or expert(s) consulted. Were there identification problems?

Confirmation: Would you accompany a biologist to the site if needed? Q yes D no
additional Comments: (use additional sheets if needed)

Required Field

APPENDIX 2.

SITES SURVEYED DURING 1995

AMPHIBIAN AND REPTILE SURVEYS

ON THE
HELENA NATIONAL FOREST

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APPENDIX 3.

AMPHIBIANS AND REPTILES

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HELENA NATIONAL FOREST

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APPENDIX 4.

AMPHIBIANS AND REPTILES

REPORTED FROM IN AND AROUND THE

HELENA NATIONAL FOREST

Natural Heritage Program 03/21/1996

Montana Animal Atlas (Herpelile) Species Report

County Precision Date Breed Data Type

LONG-TOED SALAMANDER

Jefferson .5 to 5 mil 4/28/1962 No Museum Specimen
2 mi. S. of East Helena on branch McClellen Creek

Jefferson .5 to 5 mil 4/28/1962 No Museum Specimen
S. of East Helena on Al Palmer Ranch

Jefferson .5 to 5 mil 4/28/1962 Yes Museum Specimen
2 mi. s. of East Helena on branch McClellen Creek

Jefferson .5 to 5 mil 8/25/1959 No Museum Specimen
Horse trough off McClellen Creek

Jefferson .5 to 5 mil 7/ /1 972 No Museum Specimen
Near Clancy

Jefferson < .5 mile. 5/15/1995 Yes Observation
Mill Creek headwaters

Jefferson < .5 mile. 5/15/1995 Yes Observation
Upper Willard Creek

Jefferson < .5 mile. 5/20/1995 Yes Observation
Old beaver pond in upper Corral Gulch.

Jefferson <.5mile. 5/20/1995 Yes Observation
Large pond just below Park Lake

Jefferson < .5 mile. 9/6/1995 Yes Observation
Cliff Lake, Red Rock Drainage

Lewis & Clark .5 to 5 mil 7/13/1983 No Museum Specimen
Upper Grizzly Gulch

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 5/20/1995 Yes Observation
Old beaver pond on tributary of Beaver Creek

Lev/is & Clark < .5 mile. 5/24/1995 Yes Observation
Middle Copper Creek drainage in pond.

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 5/25/1995 Yes Obser\'ation
Pond N. of Heart Lake

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 7/11/1995 Yes Museum Specimen
Ponds en Austin Creek

Natural Heritage Program 03/21/1996

Montana Animal Atlas (Herpetile) Species Report

County Precision Date Breed Data Type

LONG-TOED SALAMANDER (cominued)

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 7/11/1995 Yes Observation
Beaver ponds, Meadow Creek

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 7/11/1995 Yes Observation
Dog Creek beaver ponds

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 9/28/1995 No Observation
Marysville

Powell < .5 mile. 7/11/1995 Yes Museum Specimen

Lilly Lake

Powell <.5mile. 7/11/1995 Yes Museum Specimen

Mine shaft pond

Powell <.5mile. 7/11/1995 Yes Observation

Bryan Creek Beaver Pond

Powell <.5mile. 8/23/1995 Yes Museum Specimen

Small pond off BLM road, Garnet Mountains

Powell <.5mile. 8/24/1995 Yes Observation

Lower Chamberlain Meadows ca. 3/4 down, Garnet Mountains

Powell <.5mile. 8/25/1995 Yes Museum Specimen

Old oxbow at Blackfoot River, 1 mi. SW of Blackfoot Canyon Campground

TAILED FROG

Lewis & Clark 5 to 10 mil / /I966 No Observation
Tributary of Copper Creek, tributary of the Blackfoot River

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 7/5/1994 Yes Museum Specimen
Falls Creek, crossing down to falls.

WESTERN TOAD

Broadwater > 10 miles. / /I966 Yes Observation
Near Canyon Ferry Reser\'oir, small spring in open ponderosa pine.

Cascade .5 to 5 mil / / 0 No Museum Specimen
Little Belt r.Icuntains, 1 .2 n-.iles N. (Hwy £9) of Kings Hill Pass, 7200 "t.

Natural Heritage Program 03/21/1996

Montana Animal Atlas (Herpetile) Species Report

County Precision Date Breed Data Type

WESTERN TOAD (continued)

Cascade .5 to 5 mil / /1 966 No Observation
Kings Hill, 7000 ft.

Granite .5 to 5 mil 7/1 1/1977 Yes Museum Specimen

Vi mi W of Bearmouth, rest area off 1-90.

Jefferson .5 to 5 mil 8/7/1951 No Museum Specimen
Prickly Pear Creek

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 7/11/1995 Yes Museum Specimen
Dog Creek beaver ponds

Lewis & Clark .5 to 5 mil 5/25/1995 No Observation
McDonald Pass area

Meagher > 10 miles. 8/4/1899 No Museum Specimen
Deep Creek Canyon, Big Belt Mountains

Meagher > 10 miles. 8/23/1919 No Museum Specimen
Fort Logan, Camas Creek (4 mi S).

Meagher .5 to 5 mil 8/20/1951 No Museum Specimen

Sheep Creek near Jumping Creek Campgrounds

Meagher .5 to 5 mil 8/24/1951 Yes Museum Specimen

Adams Ranch, Sheep Creek

Meagher .5 to 5 mil 8/ 6/1958 No Museum Specimen
Lake Creek

Meagher < .5 mile. 6/26/1995 No Observation
Beaver ponds on Daniels Creek

Powell <.5mile. 8/25/1995 Yes Museum Specimen

Old oxbow at Blackfoot River, 1 mi. SW of Blackfoot Canyon Campground

Powell .5 to 5 mil 7/9/1995 No Obser\'ation

30 mi. NW of Lincoln, Coopers Lake

WOODHOUSE'S TOAD

Lewis & Clark .5 to 5 mil II 9/1948 No Museum Specimen
Mouth of Trout Creek, Mirscuri Ri\ >;r

Natural Heritage Program 03/21/1996

Montana Animal Atlas (Herpelile) Species Report

County Precision Date Breed Data Type

WESTERN CHORUS FROG

Cascade 5 to 10 mil 6/ 7/1993 No Observation

Chestnut Valley Sand hills

Jefferson < .5 mile. 8/20/1995 Yes Observation
Jefferson Creek, Elkhom Mtns. In Cow Pond.

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 5/21/1995 No Observation
Ca. 17 mi. S. of Augusta, on Wrangle Creek

Lewis & Clark .5 to 5 mil 5/25/1995 No Observation
McDonald Pass area

PLALNS SPADEFOOT

Cascade .5 to 5 mil 8/31/1948 No Museum Specimen
3 mi. S. of Cascade, Missouri River

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 6/ /1988 No Observation
Dave Center's house.

NORTHERN LEOPARD FROG

Broadwater < .5 mile. 5/10/1993 No Observation
Deepdale FAS. Directly E. across channel from Deepdale BE nest

Broadwater .5 to 5 mil 8/13/1899 Yes Museum Specimen
Townsend

Cascade .5 to 5 mil 8/31/1948 No Museum Specimen
3 mi. S. of Cascade, Missouri River

Cascade .5 to 5 mil 8/12/1954 No Museum Specimen
Spanish Coulee

Granite .5 to 5 mil 7/27/1961 No Museum Specimen
Lake Albacaulis

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 7/ /1993 No Observation
very small riparian ponds along Dearborn River

Lewis & Clark .5 to 5 mil 8/1 1/1948 No Museum Specimen
Wolf Creek

Natural Heritage Program 03/21/1996

Montana Animal Atlas (Herpetile) Species Report

County Precision Date Breed Data Type

SPOTTED FROG (continued)

Jefferson < .5 mile. 9/6/1995 No Observation
Cliff Lake, Red Rock Drainage

Judith Basin .5 to 5 mil 8/8/1944 No Museum Specimen
12 miles S. of Neihart

Lewis & Clark .5 to 5 mil / /1 966 No Obser\'ation
2.3 miles W. of Flasher Pass tributary of Blackfoot River

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 9/3/1994 No Observation
Prickley Pear Creek just W. of Stansfield Lake.

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 7/27/1975 No Observation
Pond, ca. 400 m from the main stack of East Helena Smelter.

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 7/27/1975 No Observation
Ca. 1.6 km SSE from the East Helena Smelter in springs

Lewis & Clark <.5mile. 7/27/1975 No Obser\'ation
McClellan Creek Quarr>' Lake

Lewis & Clark <.5mile. 5/22/1994 No Museum Specimen
7-Up Pete Proposed Gold Mine area on HWY 200, ca. 10 mi. E. of Lincoln.

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 5/20/1995 Yes Museum Specimen
Old beaver pond on tributary of Beaver Creek

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 5/20/1995 Yes Observation
Pond 0.5 mi. w. of Chessman Reservoir.

Lewis & Clark <.5mile. 5/24/1995 No Obser\'ation
Copper Creek beaver pond near campgrounds.

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 5/24/1995 No Observation
Middle Copper Creek drainage in pond.

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 5/25/1995 Yes Obser\'ation
PondN. of Heart Lake

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 7/11/1995 Yes Observation
Ponds on Austin Creek

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 5/24/1995 No Observation
Copper Creek

Natural Heritage Program 03/21/1996

Montana Animal Atlas (Herpetile) Species Report

County Precision Date Breed Data Type

SPOTTED FROG (continued)

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 8/31/1995 Yes Observation
Poorman Creek, before road leaves creek

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 8/31/1995 No Observation
Upper Blackfoot River marshes

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 7/11/1995 Yes Obser\'ation
Beaver ponds, Meadow Creek

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 7/11/1995 Yes Observation
Dog Creek beaver ponds

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 6/27/1995 No Obser\'ation
S. of Park Lake

Meagher .5 to 5 mil 6/ 1/1978 No Museum Specimen

Dry Fork of Musselshell River

Meagher < .5 mile. 5/29/1994 Yes Museum Specimen

Crater Lake and ponds above, 5880 ft.

Meagher <.5mile. 7/8/1994 No Obser\'ation
W. fork Checkerboard Creek, Castle Mountains, 6200 ft.

Meagher < .5 mile. 7/9/1994 No Observation
Onion Park, Little Belt Mountains, also sec. 5.

Meagher .5 to 5 mil 8/6/1958 No Museum Specimen
Lake Creek

Meagher .5 to 5 mil 5/13/1950 No Museum Specimen
Near Ringling Hot Well

Meagher < .5 mile. 6/26/1995 No Observation
Irrigation ditch below Wolsey Creek on Sheep Creek

Meagher < .5 mile. 8/3/1995 No Observation
N. Fork Eagle Creek

Meagher < .5 mile. 8/15/1995 No Observation
E. Fork Grasshopper Creek

Meagher < .5 mile. 8/30/1995 No Obser\'ation
Grasshopper Creek

Natural Heritage Program 03/21/1996

Montana Animal Atlas (Herpetile) Species Report

County Precision Date Breed Data Type

SPOTTED FROG (continued)

Powell .5 to 5 mil 7/21/1891 No Museum Specimen

Elliston, near Little Blackfoot River

Powell .5 to 5 mil 7/22/1891 No Museum Specimen

Deer Lodge, Cottonwood Creek

Powell .5 to 5 mil / / 0 No Museum Specimen

Ovando, N. of Camp Lake

Powell .5 to 5 mil / / 0 No Museum Specimen

Browns Lake

Powell <.5mile. 7/11/1995 Yes Museum Specimen

Lilly Lake

Powell <.5mile. 7/11/1995 Yes Observation

Beaver pond, Little Blackfoot

Powell < .5 mile. 7/11/1995 Yes Museum Specimen

Mine shaft pond

Powell <.5mile. 7/11/1995 No Observation

Mine shaft pond

Powell <.5mile. 7/11/1995 Yes Observation

Bryan Creek Beaver Pond

Powell <.5mile. 7/11/1995 No Observation

Little Blackfoot River Beaver Dam

Powell <.5mile. 8/23/1995 Yes Museum Specimen

Small pond off BLM road, Garnet Mountains

Powell <.5mile. 8/24/1995 Yes Museum Specimen

Lower Chamberlain Meadows ca. 3/4 down, Garnet Mountains

Powell <.5mile. 8/31/1995 No Observation

Pond off road, Sucker Creek

Powell < .5 mile. 8/22/1995 No Observation

Cottonwood Meadow, Garnet Mountains

Pov/ell <.5mile. 8/22/1995 No Observation

South side Old Balcv '■ ''■'•• ■' Game! Mountains

Natural Heritage Program 03/2 1 /1 996

Montana Animal Atlas (Herpetile) Species Report

Count>' Precision Date Breed Data Type

SPOTTED FROG (continued)

Powell <.5mile. 8/31/1995 No Obser^'ation

Pond off road, Sucker Creek

Powell < .5 mile. 8/25/1995 Yes Museum Specimen

Old oxbow at Blackfoot River, 1 mi. SW of Blackfoot Canyon Campground

PAINTED TURTLE

Broadwater < .5 mile. 5/ /1993 No Observation
Canyon Ferry WMA east side.

Broadwater 5 to 10 mil / / 0 No Specimen Reported
See map in Black 1970

Broadwater < .5 mile. 5/9/1995 No Observation
Deepdale fishing access

Granite .5 to 5 mil 6/ /1995 Yes Observation

In pond by rest area along 1-90 near Bearmouth.

Jefferson < .5 mile. 7/26/1995 No Observation
Prickly Pear Road

Lewis & Clark <.5mile. / /1994 Yes Observation
Spring Meadow Lake

Powell .5 to 5 mil 9/7/1994 No Observation

Lahrity Lake in Ovando Valley

Powell .5 to 5 mil 9/8/1994 No Observation

Evans Lake

Powell 5 to 10 mil / / 0 No Specimen Reported

See map in Black 1970

SPINY SOFTSHELL

Broadwater 5 to 10 mil / / 0 No Specimen Reported
Canyon Ferry Reservoir

Natural Heritage Program 03/21/1996

Montana Animal Atlas (Herpetile) Species Report

County Precision Date Breed Data Type

RUBBER BOA

Broadwater 5 to 10 mil // 0 No Specimen Reported
See map in Davis 1963

Broadwater .5 to 5 mil 9/ /1957 No Museum Specimen
Near Toston

Gallatin .5 to 5 mil 8/1 1/1959 No Museum Specimen
Middle Fork 16 Mile Creek

Lewis & Clark 5 to 10 mil // 0 No Specimen Reported
See map in Davis 1963

Lewis & Clark .5 to 5 mil 3/ /1949 No Museum Specimen
Worth Ranch, Canyon Creek

Lewis & Clark .5 to 5 mil / /1 994 No Observation
Grizzly Gulch SSW of Helena

RACER

Lewis & Clark 5 to 10 mil // 0 No Specimen Reported
See map in Davis 1963

Lewis & Clark 5 to 10 mil // 0 No Specimen Reported
See map in Davis 1 963

Lewis & Clark 5 to 1 0 mil / / 0 No Specimen Reported
See map in Davis 1963

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 5/20/1995 No Museum Specimen
1 .5 mi. ESE of Sieben Ranch

Natural Heritage Program 03/21/1996

Montana Animal Atlas (Herpetile) Species Report

County Precision Date Breed Data Type

GOPHER SNAKE

Broadwater <.5mile. 5/21/1994 No Observation
Hwy. 12 between Helena and Townsend

Broadwater < .5 mile. 8/30/1995 No Observation
Whites Creek

Cascade 5 to 10 mil 7/6/1993 No Observation

Chestnut Valley Sandhills

Lewis & Clark .5 to 5 mil 10/15/1982 No Museum Specimen
Junction Sheep and Little Prickly Pear Creeks

Lewis & Clark .5 to 5 mil 5/24/1941 No Museum Specimen
Wolf Creek

Lewis & Clark .5 to 5 mil 7/28/1951 No Museum Specimen
Prickly Pear Creek

WESTERN TERRESTRIAL GARTER

Broadwater .5 to 5 mil 9/ /1 962 No Museum Specimen
W. of Winston

Broadwater < .5 mile. 7/12/1995 No Observation
Lake off of Springs Gulch, Big Belt Mountains

Broadwater < .5 mile. 5/29/1995 No Observation
Deepdale Fishing Access Site

Broadwater < .5 mile. 7/12/1995 No Observation
FS RD 359 along Avalanche Creek benveen McGregor and Spilling Gulch

Broadwater < .5 mile. 10/15/1995 No Museum Specimen
Indian Road Recreation Area, just N of Townsend

Gallatin 5 to 10 mil // 0 No Specimen Reported
See map in Davis 1963

Granite 5 to 10 mil 10/31/1944 No Museum Specimen

Rock Creek

Jefferson .5 to 5 mil 7/30/1951 No Museum Specimen
Prickly Pear Creek

Natural Heritage Program 03/21/1996

Montana Animal Atlas (Herpetiie) Species Report

County Precision Date Breed Data Type

WESTERN TERRESTRIAL GARTER (continued)

Jefferson .5 to 5 mil 7/30/1951 No Museum Specimen
Prickley Pear

Jefferson .5 to 5 mil 4/28/1962 No Museum Specimen
S. of East Helena on Al Palmer Ranch

Lewis & Clark .5 to 5 mil 7/20/1891 No Museum Specimen
12 miles E of Helena on McClellen Creek

Lewis & Clark 5 to 10 mil // 0 No Specimen Reported
See map in Davis 1963

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 7/27/1975 No Observation
Pond, ca. 400 m from the main stack of East Helena Smelter.

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 7/27/1975 No Observation
Where Prickly Pear Creek flows along slag pile at East Helena Smelter.

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 7/27/1975 No Observation
McClellan Creek Quarry Lake

Lewis & Clark .5 to 5 mil 6/30/1949 No Museum Specimen
Prickly Pear Creek

Lewis & Clark .5 to 5 mil 9/10/1951 No Museum Specimen
Prickley Pear Creek

Lewis & Clark .5 to 5 mil 8/ /1 994 Yes Observation
Little Prickly Pear Creek N. of Helena

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 7/5/1995 No Observation
Helena

Lewis & Clark < .5 mile. 8/20/1995 No Observation
Falls Creek

Lewis & Clark .5 to 5 mil 5/25/1995 No Observation
McDonald Pass area

Madison .5 to 5 mil / /1 994 No Obser\'ation

Little Blackfoot River W. of A\'on

Natural Heritage Program 03/21/1 996

Montana Animal Atlas (Herpetile) Species Report

County Precision Date Breed Data Type

WESTERN TERRESTRIAL GARTER (continued)

Meagher 5 to 10 mil S/22/1919 No Museum Specimen

Fort Logan, Camas Creek, (4 mi S)

Meagher < .5 mile. 8/30/1995 No Observation
Grasshopper Creek

Powell > 10 miles. 7/31/1967 No Museum Specimen

North Fork of the Blackfoot River

Powell > 10 miles. 7/3/1973 No Museum Specimen

North Fork of the Blackfoot River

Powell < .5 mile. 6/ /1950 No Specimen Reported

Cottonwood Creek

Powell .5 to 5 mil 6/6/1950 No Museum Specimen

0.5 mi. above mouth of Cottonwood Creek

Powell <.5mile. 8/31/1995 No Observation

Road past Stemple Pass

COMMON GARTER SNAKE

Broadwater < .5 mile. 9/25/1995 No Observation
Eureka Creek

Cascade .5 to 5 mil 9/6/1994 No Observation
Schrammeck Lake

Lewis & Clark 5 to 10 mil // 0 No Specimen Reported
See map in Davis 1963

Lewis & Clark 5 to 10 mil 7/30/1951 No Museum Specimen
Prickly Pear Creek

Powell .5 to 5 mil / /1994 No Obser\'ation

N. of Ovando

Powell <.5mile. 8/3/1995 No Obsen'ation

Ontario Creek

Natural Heritage Program 03/21/1996

Montana Animal Atlas (Herpetile) Species Report

County Precision Date Breed DataTjpe

WESTERN RATTLESNAKE

Cascade .5 to 5 mil / /1927 No Museum Specimen
Cascade

Gallatin 5 to 10 mil / / 0 No Specimen Reported
See map in Davis 1963

Lewis & Clark .5 to 5 mil 7/28/1949 No Museum Specimen
Wirth Ranch

Lewis & Clark <.5mile. 8/ /1 995 No Observation
Melony Bruhn's house

APPENDIX 5.

NOTES ON HARLEQUIN SURVEYS

AND EXAMINATION OF POTENTIAL

NORTHERN BOG LEMMING HABITAT

ON THE HELENA NATIONAL FOREST

Appendix 5. Notes on harlequin surveys and examination of potential northern bog
lemming habitat on the Helena National Forest.

Northern Bog Lemmings. All sites surveyed for amphibians and reptiles were also
examined for their potential suitability as northern bog lemming {Synaptomys borealis)
habitat. None examined seemed suitable. Particular attention was given Indian
Meadows, however no extensive moss mats were found. There may be small pockets of
suitable habitat within this large wetland complex which were missed, as only about 4
hours were spent exploring the area, and the water level was very high. Summaries of
current knowledge of Montana distribution and habitat is available (Reichel 1996,
Reichel and Beckstrom 1994).

Harlequin Ducks were surveyed on the Landers Fork of the Blackfoot River,
Copper Creek, and the East Fork of the North Fork Blackfoot River (Table A5.1). None
were found on the Helena National Forest,, however one pair was located near North Fork
Falls, less than a mile below HNF lands on the Lolo NF. It seems likely that ducks will
be found to use the East Fork of the North Fork on the HNF. It was surprising that no
ducks were located on the Landers Fork given the apparently good habitat and lack of
disturbance on that stream. I would recommend that 1-2 additional surveys during pair
season (1 May to 1 June) be done before a final conclusion that ducks are not currently
present is reached. The section above which we surveyed was not accessible; high water
made crossing the river impossible and cliffs on both sides of the river made walking the
river also impossible. It is unknown at this time if the section above is boatable and may
be surveyed that way. GiN'en the easy access to Copper Creek and the amount of the
stream surveyed, it seems doubtful that this stream currently has harlequins present; I
would not recommend resurveying it at this time without unless either: 1) harlequins
ducks are reported in the Copper Creek-Landers Fork drainage; or 2) major land
management activities are plamied in the drainage. Statewide Harlequin survey data is
currently being summarized and will be available soon (Reichel and Center, in prep.), as
will a Conservation Assessment and Strategy for the U.S. Rocky Mountains (Cassirer et
al., in review).

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^Appendix 6. Heritage program species ranking definitions.

Taxa are evaluated and ranked by the Heritage Program on the basis of their global (range-wide) status, and
their state-wide status. These ranks are used to determine protection and data collection priorities, and are
revised as new information becomes available.

A scale of 1 (critically imperiled) to 5 (demonstrably secure) is used for these ranks, and each species is
assigned the appropriate combination of global and state ranks.

Example: common loon = G5 / S3 (i.e., species is demonstrably secure globally; in Montana is found within a
restricted range).

Global and state ranks are assigned according to a standardized procedure used by all Natural Heritage
Programs, and are defined below.

Global/state

Rank Definition (G = Range-wide; S = Montana)

Gl SI Critically imperiled because of extreme rarity {5 or fewer

occurrences, or very few remaining individuals), or because of some
factor of its biology making it especially vulnerable to extinction.

G2 S2 Imperiled because of rarity (6 to 20 occurrences) , or because of other

I factors demonstrably making it very vulnerable to extinction

throughout its range.

03 S3 Either very rare and local throughout its range, or found locally

{even abundantly at some of its locations) in a restricted range, or
vulnerable to extinction throughout its range because of other
factors; in the range of 21 to 100 occurrences.

G4 84 Apparently secure, though it may be quite rare in parts of its range,

especially at the periphery.

G5 S5 Demonstrably secure, though it may be quite rare in parts of its

range, especially at the periphery.

GU SU ' Possibly in peril, but status uncertain; more information needed.

GH SH Historically known; may be rediscovered.

GX SX Believed to be extinct; historical records only, continue search.

' other codes :

A Accidental in the state; including species (usually birds or butterflies)

recorded very infrequently, hundreds or thousands of miles outside their usual
range .

B A state rank modifier indicating breeding status for a migratory species.
Example: S1B,SZN -- breeding occurrences for the species are ranked SI
(critically imperiled) in the state, nonbreeding occurrences are not ranked in
the state.

E An exotic established in the state; may be native in nearby regions.

HYB Element represents a hybrid of species.

N A state rank modifier indicating non-breeding status for a migratory species.
Example: S1B,SZN -- breeding occurrences for the species are ranked SI
(critically imperiled) in the state, nonbreeding occurrences are not ranked in
the state.

P Indicates the element may potentially occur in the state.

Q Taxonomic questions or problems involved, more information needed; appended to
the global rank.

' R Reported in the state; but lacking documentation which would provide a basis for
either accepting or rejecting the report.

T Rank for a subspecific taxon (subspecies, variety, or population) ; appended to
the global rank for the full species.

Z Ranking not applicable.

# A modifier to SX or SH; the species has been reintroduced but the population is
not yet breeding and established.

USF&WS (USESA) Status: The codes in this column denote the categories defined in the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service Notices of Review (1990, 1993, 1994), and indicate the status of
a taxcn with respect to the federal Endangered Species Act of 1973:

E/SA Treat as endangered because of similarity of appearance.

LE Endangered

LT Threatened

P Proposed E or T

CI Notice of Review, Category 1 (substantial biological information on file to

support the Epprcpriaueness of prcpcsing to list as endangered or threatened) .

C2 Notice of Review, Category 2 (current information indicates that proposing to
list as endangered or threatened is possibly appropriate, but substantial
biological information is not on file to support an immediate ruling) .

C2* Category 2, and the taxon is possibly extinct.

3A Taxa for which the USFWS has persuasive evidence of extinction.

3B Names that, on the basis of current taxonomic understanding, do not represent
taxa meeting the Endangered Species Act's definition of "species."

30 Taxa that have proven to be more abundant or widespread than was previously
believed, and/or those that are not subject to any identifiable threat.

NL Not listed/no designation. (See note below.)

XN Nonessential experimental population.

Note: A species can have more than one federal designation if the species' status
varies within its range. In these instances the Montana designation is listed first.

Examples: bald eagle = LELT. Species is Listed Endangered in Montana; elsewhere in
its range it may be Listed Threatened.

trumpeter swan = C2NL. Species is a Category 2 in Montana; elsewhere in its range
it may not have USF&WS designation.

common tern = NLC2 . Species has no USF&WS designation in Montana; elsewhere in
its range it may be a Category 2.

USFS Status: The status of species in Montana as defined by the U.S. Forest Service
Tianual (2670.22) . These taxa are listed as such by the Regional Forester (Northern
Region) on Montana National Forests.

State Status: These codes give the state legal status of vertebrates as listed in the
1989 Statutes of Montana for the Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

GA = game animal

GF = game fish

F3 = fur bearing animal Management Status:

MB = migratory bird

T'ii = upland game bird CD = closed season

E = endangered RH = restricted harvest

NG = nongame wildlife

P = protected species

U = unprotected species

MONTANA
STATE

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Full text of "Preliminary amphibian and reptile survey of the Helena National Forest : 1995 : a report to USDA Forest Service"

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