Since 1991, Spotted Frogs have been on Alberta's Blue List of species that current knowledge suggests may be at risk of almost disappearing in the province. The population status remains uncertain and investigation is required to determine if a possible decline in numbers or numbers of populations is occurring.
Spotted Frogs have regularly been described as "highly aquatic", which means they love the water! They are generally associated with cool, permanent water sources such as slow moving streams, rivers, marshes, springs, pools, and the edges of small lakes, usually with lots of aquatic vegetation. The species does make use of upland habitats, and will do so for long periods of time if enough water and cover is available nearby. Although adults may move a considerable distance from water following breeding, they generally prefer ponds or quiet water in forests, in grassland, and in brushland of sage and rabbitbush.
Spotted Frogs generally lay their eggs in the shallow, reedy water at the edges of ponds. In Alberta, Spotted Frogs prefer small ponds and river lowlands as breeding sites.
Adults search for worms, insects, spiders, molluscs, and crustaceans both in water and on land. Molluscs, such as snails, made up the second largest component of the diet.
To learn about other species at risk in Alberta click here.
