Overview
- Species Common NameCascades Frog
- Species Scientific NameRana cascadae
- Federal Listing StatusSpecies of Concern
- State Listing StatusSensitive
Ecoregions
East Cascades
The East Cascade ecoregion extends from the Cascade Mountains’ summit east to the warmer, drier high desert and down the length of the state. This ecoregion varies dramatically from its cool, moist border with the West Cascades ecoregion to its dry eastern border, where it meets sagebrush desert landscapes.
West Cascades
The West Cascades ecoregion extends from east of the Cascade Mountains summit to the foothills of the Willamette, Umpqua, and Rogue Valleys, and spans the entire length of the state of Oregon. It is largely dominated by conifer forests, moving into alpine parklands and dwarf shrubs at higher elevations.
Special needs
Cascades frogs inhabit mountain meadows, bogs, ponds, or potholes above 2,400 feet elevation. They require access to clean, permanent water sources. Cascades frogs lay eggs in slow-moving water, at shallow, sunny edges of ponds, or on low vegetation near ponds where warm sunlight speeds egg development. Larvae may “school” in large masses.
Limiting factors
This montane species is vulnerable to genetic isolation. It has experienced substantial reductions in the southern parts of its range, particularly in California. Cascades frogs are potentially sensitive to waterborne pathogens. Water availability (changes in snow pack/melt), sedimentation (livestock grazing/watering), and predation and competition by introduced fish are additional threats.
Data gaps
Investigate habitat requirements and how they vary by elevation across the species' range. Identify habitat characteristics that could enhance migration and gene flow. Describe feeding habits. Evaluate the effects of pathogens and airborne environmental pollution on this species. Explore the feasibility of reintroduction at historically occupied sites.
Conservation actions
Maintain habitat connectivity. Monitor and address impacts of fish stocking and poor water quality. Carefully manage livestock grazing in occupied wet meadows. Use prescribed burning or hand-felling of trees periodically to manage plant succession. If reintroductions are warranted, use individuals from nearby sites and consult results of feasibility studies. Conservation actions in Oregon are particularly valuable given reductions in other parts of the range.
Key reference or plan
Cascades Frog Conservation AssessmentHabitat Management Guidelines for Amphibians and Reptiles of the Northwestern U.S. and Canada
