Aumsville Wetlands Amphibians
The Aumsville Ponds are used as breeding sites by the following amphibian species:
Rough-skinned newt (Taricha granulosa)
Bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana)
Red-legged frog (Rana aurora)
Pacific treefrog (Hyla regilla)
The presence of red-legged frogs is particularly noteworthy. This species was at one time common in the Willamette Valley but is now quite rare. It is listed as a species of concern by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Although reasons for the decline are unknown, predation by bullfrogs, loss of habitat, and water pollution have been proposed as contributing factors. Since the Aumsville Site for Environmental Studies is isolated from other suitable habitats by agricultural lands, this may well be an isolated population. At least 14 egg masses and 10 juvenile red-legged frogs were seen in mid-March.
Wynn W. Cudmore
Life Science Instructor
Chemeketa Community College
