A Guide to the Amphibians of Erie County, Pennsylvania BRIAN S. GRAY

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3 A Guide to the Amphibians of Erie County, Pennsylvania BRIAN S. GRAY Volunteer Natural History Museum at the Tom Ridge Environmental Center Erie, Pennsylvania, USA. Published by Brian S. Gray Copyright 2011 Brian S. Gray 3

4 Table of Contents Introduction 6 Acknowledgments 9 Species accounts 10 Frogs and Toads True Toads American Toad 12 Fowler s Toad 14 Treefrogs Eastern Gray Treefrog 16 Spring Peeper 18 True Frogs Bullfrog 20 Bronze Frog 22 Pickerel Frog 24 Northern Leopard Frog 26 Wood Frog 28 Salamanders Mole Salamanders Jefferson Salamander 32 Spotted Salamander 34 Hellbender Hellbender 36 Dusky Salamanders Northern Dusky Salamander 38 Allegheny Dusky Salamander 40 4

5 Brook Salamanders Northern Two-lined Salamander 42 Spring Salamanders Spring Salamander 44 Four-toed Salamander Four-toed Salamander 46 Woodland Salamanders Northern Redback Salamander 48 Northern Slimy Salamander 50 Red and Mud Salamanders Red Salamander 52 Waterdogs and Mudpuppies Common Mudpuppy 54 Eastern Newts Eastern Newt 56 Possible Species 58 Nonnative Species 60 Identifying Tadpoles 61 Glossary 65 Maps 67 Bibliography 71 5

6 INTRODUCTION Erie County in northwestern Pennsylvania, a formerly glaciated region, is unique among the commonwealth s 67counties in that it is bordered by Lake Erie on its north side. The county is divided into 21 townships (Figure 1) and contains the city of Erie, the fourth largest city in Pennsylvania. Two physiographic provinces occur in the county, the Central Lowland and the Appalachian Plateaus. The Central Lowland province consists of a narrow band, 2 5 miles wide, extending along the Lake Erie shoreline. It is primarily flat in the northern portion, but becomes hillier to the south. The Appalachian Plateaus province is relatively smooth with rolling north south to northwest southeast oriented ridges. In this province, meandering streams have carved deep valleys into the Devonian Shale bedrock (Schooler 1974; Briggs 1999). The climate in Erie County is significantly influenced by Lake Erie, which has a moderating affect on temperature. In Erie County, temperatures rarely fall below 0º F in winter, and seldom exceed 90º F in summer. On average, January is the coldest month (mean temperature 26.9º F) and July is the warmest (mean temperature 72.1º F) (NOAA 2011). Mean annual precipitation ranges between inches; average annual snowfall ranges from inches in the southeastern portion of the county, to 80 inches along the lakeshore (Rossi 1999). A wide variety of habitats can be found in Erie County, including forests, fields, meadows, pastures, swamps, bogs, ponds, streams (permanent and intermittent), and, of course, the beaches and bluffs along Lake Erie. Presque Isle deserves special mention. Presque Isle is a curved sand spit that developed approximately 4,000 5,000 years ago as rising lake levels 6

7 winnowed sand from the late Wisconsinan moraine that extends across Lake Erie from Long Point, Ontario, toward Erie (Delano 1999). Presque Isle contains a wide range of beach, dune, and interdune-pond environments that provide habitat for many species of wildlife, including amphibians and reptiles (Delano 1999). The continental climate and diverse habitats make Erie County a suitable place for many amphibians, some of which approach their northern range limits in this area. Twenty-two species of amphibians have been documented from Erie County: 13 salamanders and 9 frogs and toads. This guide is meant to serve as an aid to identifying the amphibians of Erie County, Pennsylvania. Each species account includes at least one photograph, a brief description of the pattern, habits, distribution, conservation status, and concerns. Also, a section on identifying some of the area s tadpoles is provided. The bibliography at the end of this guide lists all the works cited herein. In addition, for those wishing to learn more about the amphibians of Erie County, and Pennsylvania in general, additional publications are recommended. 7

8 Figure 1. Townships of Erie County, Pennsylvania, including the City of Erie. AMY, Amity; CNT, Conneaut; CRD, Concord; CTE, City of Erie; ELK, Elk; FRK, Franklin; FRV, Fairview; GFD, Greenfield; GRD, Girard; GRE, Greene; HBK, Harborcreek; LBF, Le Boeuf; MCK, McKean; MLK, Millcreek; NES, North East; SUM, Summit; UNI, Union; VEN, Venango; WAY, Wayne; WRF, Waterford; WSH, Washington; WSP, Springfield. 8

9 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS I would like to offer my sincere thanks to Scott Bloomstine and Mark Lethaby for the many hours spent in the field searching for amphibians in Erie County, Pennsylvania and abroad. Brian Winslow deserves my gratitude for granting me permission to study the amphibians and reptiles of the Asbury Woods Greenway in Millcreek Township; a great deal of my time was spent among the woods and wetlands observing the area s herpetofauna. Thanks also to Jeffrey C. Beane for reviewing the text. 9

10 SPECIES ACCOUNTS The common and scientific names used in this guide are those listed in Collins and Taggert (2009). With a few exceptions, the maximum sizes given in each species description are those in Conant and Collins (1998). The summaries for each species activity period, habitats, habits, distribution, and status were acquired from a combination of personal field experience and the literature (Hulse et al. 2001; Gray and Lethaby 2008; Steele et al. 2010). In most cases information pertaining to egg-laying, hatching, and metamorphosis were from elsewhere in Pennsylvania or nearby states; Wright (1914) and Walker (1946) for frogs, and Bishop (1941) and Pfingsten and Downs (1989) for salamanders were particularly useful in these regards. The status and daily limits and possession limits are from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC 2011) summary regulations. The township level maps were produced with data from Gray and Lethaby (2008) and additional information acquired since the publication of that work. I have tried to incorporate photographs from specimens that were found in Erie County. When this was not possible, I selected photographs of individual(s) from elsewhere in Pennsylvania, preferably from nearby counties such as Crawford and Warren. All photographs are the author s except where indicated. Any unfamiliar terms should be looked up in the glossary. 10

11 FROGS and TOADS Nine species of frogs and toads are known from Erie County, Pennsylvania. During the breeding season, which varies between species, frogs and toads can be located by the calls of the males. (For a good guide to identifying frogs and toads by their calls, see Elliott et al. [2009]). Outside of the breeding season, one can locate frogs and toads by carefully searching along the shorelines of wetlands, creeks, and ponds. Most frogs will flee into the water upon being approached; therefore binoculars may help you observe these amphibians at a distance. Using a dipnet may occasionally turn up adult frogs and is an essential tool for catching tadpoles. In the fall, recently metamorphosed frogs may be found under logs and debris at the edges of wetlands and vernal pools. Occasionally, terrestrial frogs and toads may be encountered hopping about in the open. While identifying the adult frogs and toads presents few problems, the identification of tadpoles is a bit more difficult. In a few cases, however, it is possible to do so using distinctive characters. The discussion of tadpoles in this guide will enable the user to recognize some of the tadpoles found in Erie County. Hulse et al. (2001) provided a simplified key to identifying the tadpoles of the frogs and toads of Pennsylvania. For a more detailed treatment of identifying tadpoles, one should try and acquire Walker s (1946) publication on the frogs and toads of Ohio. 11

12 American Toad, Anaxyrus americanus Adult (top). A pair of American Toads mating (bottom). 12

13 American Toad, Anaxyrus americanus Description: American Toads may attain a total length of up to 43/8 inches (111 mm). On average, females are larger than males. The skin is dry and warty. The dorsal body color ranges from yellowish to brown or almost black. The body may have dark blotches, each usually containing 1 or 2 large warts. The ventral surface is white to cream colored with numerous dark or black blotches. During the breeding season, males can be distinguished from females by their dark throats and dark cornified regions on the inner surface between the thumb and first finger. Habitats and habits: American Toads are quite terrestrial and can be found in almost any habitat, such as old fields, forest edges, and urban gardens. In Erie County, American Toads are active from late March to midoctober. Courtship and egg-laying takes place in shallow water from April through May. The eggs hatch shortly after being laid, from 2-14 days. The larvae metamorphose from days after hatching, usually the end of May through June, and occasionally into July. Distribution: In Pennsylvania, American Toads are distributed throughout the commonwealth. In Erie County, they have been reported from all but four townships (Map 1), and likely occur in all of them. Status and concerns: In Pennsylvania there is no closed season on American Toads. The daily limit is 1 and the possession limit is 1 (PFBC 2011). 13

14 Fowler s Toad, Anaxyrus fowleri 14

15 Fowler s Toad, Anaxyrus fowleri Description: Fowler s Toads may attain a total length of up to 33/4 inches (95 mm). On average, females are larger than males. Like the American Toad, the skin is dry and warty. The dorsal ground color is a light brown or gray. Dark-bordered blotches are present, each containing 3-5 large warts. The ventral surface is white or cream colored and lacks dark blotches. During the breeding season, males can be distinguished from females by their dark throats and dark cornified patches on the inner surface of the thumb and first finger. Habitats and habits: Fowler s Toads prefer sandy substrates in lowland areas, such as occur along creeks, and in Erie County, at Presque Isle State Park. In Erie County, Fowler s Toads are active from early April to early October. Courtship and egg-laying takes place in shallow water from mid-may through June. Up to 8,000 eggs may be laid; these hatch in approximately 2-3 days. The tadpoles metamorphose in days after hatching. Distribution: In Pennsylvania, Fowler s Toads are found primarily in the lower two-thirds of the commonwealth, but also occur in Erie County, where they are known only from Presque Isle State Park and the mouth of Elk Creek (Map 2). Status and concerns: In Pennsylvania there is no closed season on Fowler s Toads. The daily limit is 1 and the possession limit is 1 (PFBC 2011). Population declines of Fowler s Toads are suspected in western Pennsylvania, and are likely the result of habitat alteration and/or destruction, especially of breeding habitat, as well as mortality on roads and highways adjacent to or bisecting breeding habitats (Koval 2010). 15

16 Eastern Gray Treefrog, Hyla versicolor 16

17 Eastern Gray Treefrog, Hyla versicolor Description: Eastern Gray Treefrogs may attain a total length of up to 23/8 inches (60 mm). On average, females are larger than males. The skin is moist and slightly rough. The dorsal ground color may be gray or green, with dark green or gray blotches that resemble lichens. The ventral surface is white or cream colored. On the inner and outer thighs is some yellowish to orange pigmentation that is hidden when the frog is sitting. The throat of males is darkly pigmented, whereas that of females is not. Habitats and habits: Eastern Gray Treefrogs are arboreal and found primarily in deciduous forest. In Erie County, Eastern Gray Treefrogs are active from mid-april to early October. Courtship and egg-laying takes place in pools, ponds, and swamps from mid-may through June. The eggs usually hatch within 4-5 days. The tadpoles metamorphose in days after hatching. During winter hibernation, Eastern Gray Treefrogs are able to survive brief periods of subfreezing temperatures due to glycerol, which acts as an antifreeze. Distribution: In Pennsylvania, Eastern Gray Treefrogs have a spotty distribution, and appear to be absent from many of the mountainous areas, as well as the northern tier of counties east of Erie. In Erie County, Eastern Gray Treefrogs have a patchy distribution, with less than half of the townships having records (Map 3). Status and concerns: In Pennsylvania there is no closed season on Eastern Gray Treefrogs. The daily limit is 1 and the possession limit is 1 (PFBC 2011). 17

18 Spring Peeper, Pseudacris crucifer 18

19 Spring Peeper, Pseudacris crucifer Description: Spring Peepers are small frogs that may attain a total length of up to 11/2 inches (38 mm). On average, females are larger than males. The dorsal ground color is light brown or tan, with a dark X on the back. The ventral surface is cream colored. Males can occasionally be distinguished from females by their darker throats, which may be greenish in color. Habitats and habits: Spring Peepers inhabit deciduous forests and adjacent fields and wetlands. In Erie County, Spring Peepers have been observed as early as early January and as late as early November. Courtship and egg-laying may occur from mid-march through April. Eggs are laid individually on twigs and aquatic vegetation. Hatching may occur in 4-5 days, and rarely up to two weeks, after being laid. The tadpoles metamorphose days after the eggs are laid. Distribution: In Pennsylvania, Spring Peepers are common and occur throughout the commonwealth. In Erie County, records are lacking from most of the central portions, as well as the extreme northeast and southeast (Map 4). Status and concerns: In Pennsylvania there is no closed season on Spring Peepers. The daily limit is 1 and the possession limit is 1 (PFBC 2011). 19

20 Bullfrog, Lithobates catesbeianus 20

21 Bullfrog, Lithobates catesbeianus Description: Bullfrogs are the largest species of frog in Erie County and may attain a total length of up to 8 inches (203 mm). Males and females attain similar sizes. The dorsal ground color is green to brown; occasionally dark mottling is present on the back. The ventral surface is white or cream colored with dark mottling. Bullfrogs lack dorsolateral folds. Adult males can be distinguished from females by a tympanum that is larger than the eye and a yellowish throat. In females the tympanum is equal to or smaller than the eye and the throat is whitish. Habitats and habits: Bullfrogs prefer permanent bodies of water such as ponds, lakes, and creeks. In Erie County, Bullfrogs are active from mid-march to mid-october. Courtship and egg-laying may extend from late May through July. The eggs hatch within 4 days. The tadpoles do not metamorphose until the following summer (June-August). Bullfrogs will eat anything they can fit in their mouths, including other frogs, snakes, small mammals, and birds. Distribution: In Pennsylvania, Bullfrogs are common and found throughout the commonwealth. In Erie County, they have been found in most townships (Map 5). Status and concerns: In Pennsylvania Bullfrogs may be harvested from July 1 through October 31. A fishing license is required to hunt Bullfrogs. The daily limit is 10 and the possession limit is 20 (PFBC 2011). 21

22 Bronze Frog, Lithobates clamitans 22

23 Bronze Frog, Lithobates clamitans Description: Bronze Frogs may attain a total length of up to 41/4 inches (108 mm). Males and females attain similar total lengths. The dorsal color is usually green to greenish brown. The ventral surface is whitish or cream colored. Bronze Frogs have dorsolateral folds on the back. Males have the tympanum larger than the eye, and yellow throats; females in contrast have the tympanum equal to or smaller than the eye, and a white or cream colored throat. Habitats and habits: Bronze Frogs are found in a variety of habitats, such as marshes, ponds, swamps, lakes, and along creeks. In Erie County, Bronze Frogs may be active as early as January (although mid-march is more typical), and as late as late October. Courtship and egg-laying takes place in the water among vegetation from May into August. The 3,000-5,000 eggs hatch in 3-5 days. Depending on water temperature, the tadpoles may metamorphose in around 70 days. In cooler years, they may overwinter and metamorphose the following summer. Distribution: In Pennsylvania, Bronze Frogs are common and widespread. In Erie County they have been found in all but three townships (Map 6), but likely occur in all of them. Status and concerns: In Pennsylvania, Bronze Frogs may be harvested from July 1 through October 31. The daily limit is 10 and the possession limit is 20 (PFBC 2011). 23

24 Pickerel Frog, Lithobates palustris 24

25 Pickerel Frog, Lithobates palustris Description: Pickerel Frogs may attain a total length of up to 31/2 inches (88 mm). On average, females are larger than males. The dorsal ground color is tan or a light shade of brown; there are dark bordered squarish blotches on the head and back. The inner thighs have yellowish pigment, and the ventral surface is cream colored. During the breeding season, males are distinguished from females by swollen thumbs. Habitats and habits: Pickerel Frogs are found in wet meadows, marshes, swamps, and along creeks. In Erie County, Pickerel Frogs may be active from late March to late October. Courtship and egg-laying may take place in shallow water from early April to mid-may. The eggs hatch after about days. The tadpoles metamorphose in about days after hatching. Pickerel Frogs produce a skin secretion that may be toxic to other frogs and amphibians. This secretion may be a deterrent to some predators. Distribution: In Pennsylvania, Pickerel Frogs are common and widespread. In Erie County they have been found in 12 townships (Map 7). Status and concerns: In Pennsylvania there is no closed season on Pickerel Frogs. The daily limit is 1 and the possession limit is 1 (PFBC 2011). 25

26 Northern Leopard Frog, Lithobates pipiens 26

27 Northern Leopard Frog, Lithobates pipiens Description: Northern Leopard Frogs may attain a total length of up to 43/8 inches (111 mm). On average, females attain larger sizes than males. The dorsal ground color is usually some shade of green, with light-bordered dark blotches on the head and back. The ventral surface is whitish. During the breeding season, males can be distinguished from females by their enlarged thumbs. Habitats and habits: Northern Leopard Frogs inhabit marshes, wet meadows, and swamps. In Erie County, Northern Leopard Frogs may be active from mid-march to early November. Courtship and egg-laying may occur from April into May. The eggs hatch in days. The tadpoles metamorphose in days after hatching. Distribution: In Pennsylvania, Northern Leopard Frogs are found throughout the commonwealth; however, the majority of records are from the western counties. In Erie County, Northern Leopard Frogs have been found in 11 townships (Map 8). Status and concerns: In Pennsylvania there is no closed season on Northern Leopard Frogs. The daily limit is 1 and the possession limit is 1 (PFBC 2011). 27

28 Wood Frog, Lithobates sylvaticus 28

29 Wood Frog, Lithobates sylvaticus Description: Wood Frogs may attain a total length of up to 31/4 inches (83mm). On average, females are larger than males. The dorsal color is tan to brown. A dark brown mask is present on the face. The ventral surface is white or cream colored. Males are usually darker than females, and have enlarged thumbs. Habitats and habits: Wood Frogs inhabit deciduous woods and adjacent wetlands. In Erie County, Wood Frogs may be active from late February to early November. Courtship and egg-laying may take place from early March into April. The eggs hatch in as little as 4 days to as long as 24 days. The tadpoles metamorphose in days. Wood Frogs are able to survive freezing due to their use of glucose as a cryoprotectant. During freezing, more than 50% of a Wood Frog's body fluids may freeze; breathing stops and the heart ceases beating. Upon thawing, their vital functions resume. Distribution: In Pennsylvania, Wood Frogs are widespread. In Erie County they have been reported from 14 townships (Map 9). Status and concerns: In Pennsylvania there is no closed season on Wood Frogs. The daily limit is 1 and the possession limit is 1 (PFBC 2011). 29

30 Top-bottom: Four-toed Salamander; Spotted Salamander; Larval Jefferson Salamander. 30

31 SALAMANDERS Thirteen species of salamanders are known from Erie County, Pennsylvania. Included among these are the Hellbender, one of the largest salamanders in North America; and the Four-toed Salamander, the smallest in Pennsylvania. In Spring, mole salamanders (Ambystoma spp.) can be found at night migrating to, or performing courtship and egg-laying behavior in, vernal pools. The best nights are those with temperatures around 50º F with a steady rain. Make sure to wear rain gear and carry a flashlight or headlamp. If salamanders are found in the water, a dipnet can be used to scoop them up and briefly examine them. The only exception is females that are in the process of laying eggs; they should be left alone and observed only. If you have a camera you can try to take pictures of the process. Our other terrestrial salamanders (as well as mole salamanders) can be found by turning logs and rocks in wooded areas. Replace any cover object to its original position after looking beneath it. If a salamander is found, remove it from under the cover object, and then replace the object and let the salamander crawl underneath. Aquatic salamanders, such as the Mudpuppy and the Hellbender, may sometimes be observed by wading shallow streams at night and searching the water with a flashlight or headlamp. Larval salamanders may also be occasionally observed in vernal pools, ponds, swamps, and streams. While it is beyond the scope of this guide to identify all of the salamander larvae of Erie County, Pennsylvania, some are illustrated herein. For those wishing to identify larval salamanders, Pfingsten and Downs (1989) provide a good introduction to the topic. 31

32 Jefferson Salamander, Ambystoma jeffersonianum Adult (top); recent metamorph (bottom). 32

33 Jefferson Salamander, Ambystoma jeffersonianum Description: Jefferson Salamanders may attain a total length of up to 81/4 inches (210 mm). On average, females attain larger sizes than males. The dorsal surface is dark brown to black, with blue flecking. The ventral surface is gray. During the breeding season (early spring), males can be distinguished by females by their swollen cloaca. Habitats and habits: Jefferson Salamanders are inhabitants of deciduous forests containing vernal pools for breeding. In Erie County, Jefferson Salamanders are active on the surface from late February to midjune. The remainder of the year is spent underground. Courtship and egglaying takes place in March or early April. Females lay from 4-5 egg masses, with each mass usually containing fewer than 25 eggs. The eggs hatch in 3045 days after being laid. Larvae metamorphose from early July into midaugust. Distribution: In Pennsylvania, Jefferson Salamanders have spotty distributions. In Erie County they are known from only four townships (Map 10). Status and concerns: In Pennsylvania there is no open season on Jefferson Salamanders. The daily limit is zero and the possession limit is zero (PFBC 2011). The alteration and destruction of select habitats, such as vernal pools, is a major threat to Jefferson Salamanders. Road mortality may also be a significant threat, especially where roads come between overwintering habitats and breeding pools. 33

34 Spotted Salamander, Ambystoma maculatum Normal patterned adult (top); unusually spotted juvenile (bottom). 34

35 Spotted Salamander, Ambystoma maculatum Description: Spotted Salamanders may attain a total length of up to 93/4 inches (248 mm). Males and females attain similar sizes, with females being only slightly larger than males. The dorsal ground color is bluish black to black, with paired rows of yellow spots. The ventral surface is slate gray. During the spring breeding season, males can be distinguished from females by their swollen cloaca. Habitats and habits: Spotted Salamanders favor deciduous or mixed forests, with vernal pools or adjacent wetlands in which to breed. In Erie County, Spotted Salamanders may be active from early March to late October. Courtship and egg-laying take place in March or April. Females may lay 2-3 egg masses, with each mass containing around 100 eggs. The eggs hatch in days. Larvae metamorphose in days after they hatch. Distribution: Spotted Salamanders are common and widespread in Pennsylvania. In Erie County they are found in more than half the townships (Map 11). Status and concerns: In Pennsylvania there is no closed season on Spotted Salamanders. The daily limit is 1 and the possession limit is 1 (PFBC 2011). Spotted Salamander egg mass. 35

36 Hellbender, Cryptobranchus alleganiensis 36

37 Hellbender, Cryptobranchus alleganiensis Description: Hellbenders are the largest salamander in Pennsylvania, and may attain a total length of up to 291/8 inches (740 mm). On average, females attain larger sizes than males. Hellbenders have loose and wrinkled skin. The dorsal surface is brownish with dark blotches; the ventral surface may be similar in color. During the breeding season, males can be distinguished from females by their swollen cloaca. Habitats and habits: Hellbenders are aquatic and occur in rivers and streams that have an abundance of large, flat rocks. In Erie County, Hellbenders are likely active year-round, but they have been observed mostly from mid-june to mid-september. Courtship, mating, and egg-laying occur in late August to early September. The eggs are brooded by the male, and hatch in days. The larvae take approximately 2 years before they lose their gills, and around 7 years to mature. Distribution: In Pennsylvania, Hellbenders are found in the western and central portions of the commonwealth. In Erie County they are known from the French Creek watershed (Map 12). Status and concerns: In Pennsylvania there is no open season on Hellbenders. The daily limit is zero and the possession limit is zero (PFBC 2011). In Pennsylvania, poor water quality due to mine drainage and industrial and domestic pollution, as well as habitat alteration and siltation, are major threats to populations of this species (Hulse 2010). Hellbenders feed predominately on crayfish; therefore any impact to these invertebrates would also affect Hellbenders. 37

38 Northern Dusky Salamander, Desmognathus fuscus 38

39 Northern Dusky Salamander, Desmognathus fuscus Description: Northern Dusky Salamanders may attain a total length of up to 59/16 inches (141 mm). On average, males are larger than females. The dorsal ground color is yellowish brown to dark brown, with a lighter broad, wavy-edged dorsal stripe. There is usually a light stripe from the eye to the angle of the mouth. Males can be distinguished from females by their relatively broader and longer heads, and the presence of a mental gland on the chin. Habitats and habits: Northern Dusky Salamanders are commonly found under rocks and logs along woodland streams. In Erie County, Northern Dusky Salamanders may be active from early March to midnovember. Courtship and mating occur in the spring and fall; most egglaying occurs during July. The eggs are laid under a log or rock in a seep or along a small stream. Females brood the eggs until they hatch in days. The larvae may metamorphose the following summer. Distribution: In Pennsylvania, Northern Dusky Salamanders are common and widespread. In Erie County they are known from the majority of townships (Map 13). Status and concerns: In Pennsylvania there is no closed season on Northern Dusky Salamanders. The daily limit is 1 and the possession limit is 1 (PFBC 2011). 39

40 Allegheny Dusky Salamander, Desmognathus ochrophaeus Typical pattern (top); atypically pigmented individual (bottom). 40

41 Allegheny Dusky Salamander, Desmognathus ochrophaeus Description: Allegheny Dusky Salamanders may attain a total length of up to 43/8 inches (111 mm). On average, males attain a larger size than females. The dorsal ground color is usually dark brown to black, with a lighter brown, broad, straight-edged dorsal stripe. There is usually a light stripe from the eye to the angle of the mouth. During the breeding season, males can be distinguished from females by their more truncated snout, and the presence of a mental gland on the chin. Habitats and habits: Allegheny Dusky Salamanders may be found along woodland streams or in the surrounding woods. In Erie County, Allegheny Dusky Salamanders may be active from early February to midnovember. Courtship and mating take place in spring and fall, with egglaying taking place under rocks or logs in seeps from April through May. The eggs hatch in days. The larvae metamorphose the following summer. Distribution: In Pennsylvania, Allegheny Dusky Salamanders are found throughout the commonwealth, except the south-central and southwestern portions. In Erie County they have been found in the majority of townships (Map 14). Status and concerns: In Pennsylvania there is no closed season on Allegheny Dusky Salamanders. The daily limit is 1 and the possession limit is 1 (PFBC 2011). 41

42 Northern Two-lined Salamander, Eurycea bislineata 42

43 Northern Two-lined Salamander, Eurycea bislineata Description: Northern Two-lined Salamanders may attain a total length of up to 43/4 inches (121 mm). Males and females attain similar sizes. The dorsal ground color is yellowish, with two black stripes running the length of the body. Between the stripes are numerous small black spots. During the breeding season, males can be distinguished from females by swelling in the region of the nasolabial grooves, and by their relatively broader heads. Habitats and habits: Northern Two-lined Salamanders are usually found under rocks or logs along streams. In Erie County, Northern Twolined Salamanders may be active from late January to early November. Courtship, mating, and egg-laying occur in spring. The eggs are attached to the underside of a flat rock in flowing water. The eggs hatch in approximately 60 days or less, depending on temperature. The larvae metamorphose after a two-year larval period. Distribution: In Pennsylvania, Northern Two-lined Salamanders are found throughout the commonwealth. In Erie County they are common and have been found in the majority of townships (Map 15). Status and concerns: In Pennsylvania there is no closed season on Northern Two-lined Salamanders. The daily limit is 1 and the possession limit is 1 (PFBC 2011). 43

44 Spring Salamander, Gyrinophilus porphyriticus 44

45 Spring Salamander, Gyrinophilus porphyriticus Description: Spring Salamanders may attain a total length of up to 91/8 inches (232 mm). Males and females attain similar sizes. The dorsal ground color is salmon pink to reddish pink, with a scattering of faint dark markings on the body. There is a light line running from the eye to the nostril (canthus rostralis). The sexes cannot be easily identified externally, except when eggs are visible through the belly skin of the female. Habitats and habits: Spring Salamanders are found near springs and streams in deciduous or mixed forests. In Erie County, Spring Salamanders may be active from early April to early November. Courtship and mating occur in the fall, while egg-laying takes place the following April through July. Females brood the eggs until they hatch. The aquatic larvae may spend up to five years in the water before they metamorphose. Distribution: In Pennsylvania, Spring Salamanders are found throughout the state. In Erie County they are uncommon and known from seven townships, primarily in the northeastern part of the county (Map 16). Status and concerns: In Pennsylvania there is no closed season on Spring Salamanders. The daily limit is 1 and the possession limit is 1 (PFBC 2011). Larva (below). 45

46 Four-toed Salamander, Hemidactylium scutatum 46

47 Four-toed Salamander, Hemidactylium scutatum Description: Four-toed Salamanders may attain a total length of up to 4 inches (102 mm). On average, females are larger than males. The dorsal surface is light brown or tan. The ventral surface is enamel white with black spotting. In addition to having four toes on each hind foot, there is a constriction at the base of the tail. Four-toed salamanders may autotomize their tails if they feel threatened. Males can be distinguished from females by their more squarely truncated snouts and swollen nasolabial areas. Habitats and habits: Four-toed Salamanders are almost always associated with wet wooded areas containing an abundance of Sphagnum moss and vernal pools or swamps in which to breed. In Erie County, Fourtoed Salamanders may be active from late March to late October. Courtship and mating occur in the fall, while egg-laying may occur in April or May. Several females may oviposit in the same nest, and at least one remains to brood the eggs. The eggs hatch in days. The larvae metamorphose in approximately 45 days. Distribution: In Pennsylvania the Four-toed Salamander has a spotty distribution, and appears more common in the western half of the commonwealth. In Erie County, Four-toed Salamanders are uncommon and known from only four townships (Map 17). Status and concerns: In Pennsylvania there is no open season on Four-toed Salamanders. The daily limit is zero and the possession limit is zero (PFBC 2011). Habitat degradation and loss are the primary threats to this species. Protection of both terrestrial habitats and wetlands, such as vernal pools in which to breed, are needed for this species to persist in a given locality. 47

48 Northern Redback Salamander, Plethodon cinereus Normal specimen and anerythristic specimen (top); Erythristic specimen (bottom). 48

49 Northern Redback Salamander, Plethodon cinereus Description: Northern Redback Salamanders may attain a total length of up to 5 inches (127 mm). Males and females attain similar sizes. The dorsal surface consists of a broad orange to reddish stripe down the back, with the sides being dark gray to black. On occasion, uniformly dark-gray specimens lacking a dorsal stripe are found; these are called leadbacks. The ventral surface is mottled with equal amounts of light and dark pigment. During the breeding season, males can be distinguished from females by their swollen nasolabial region. Habitats and habits: Northern Redback Salamanders are found under logs or rocks in deciduous, mixed, or coniferous forests. In Erie County, Northern Redback Salamanders may be active from early March to midnovember. Courtship, mating, and egg-laying take place on land. The eggs are laid in a chamber under or within a log from late May through June. The female will brood the eggs until they hatch, usually in August. There is no larval stage, and the young resemble miniature adults. Distribution: In Pennsylvania, Northern Redback Salamanders are common and widespread. In Erie County they have been found in most townships (Map 18). Status and concerns: In Pennsylvania there is no closed season on Northern Redback Salamanders. The daily limit is 1 and the possession limit is 1 (PFBC 2011). 49

50 Northern Slimy Salamander, Plethodon glutinosus 50

51 Northern Slimy Salamander, Plethodon glutinosus Description: Northern Slimy Salamanders may attain a total length of up to 81/8 inches (206 mm). On average, females attain larger sizes than males. The dorsal ground color is black with a scattering of white to silvery irregular spots. During the breeding season, males can be distinguished from females by having a circular mental gland on the chin. Habitats and habits: Northern Slimy Salamanders are terrestrial and can be found in wooded areas under rocks and logs. In Erie County, Northern Slimy Salamanders may be active from early April to mid-october. Courtship and mating may occur in the fall, while egg-laying takes place usually by June. The eggs are laid in a cavity under a log or rock, and are brooded by the female. There is no larval period and the neonates hatch in late summer. Distribution: In Pennsylvania, Northern Slimy Salamanders are common and widespread. In Erie County they are found in scattered localities in 12 townships (Map 19). Status and concerns: In Pennsylvania there is no closed season on Northern Slimy Salamanders. The daily limit is 1 and the possession limit is 1 (PFBC 2011). Mental gland of male. 51

52 Red Salamander, Pseudotriton ruber 52

53 Red Salamander, Pseudotriton ruber Description: Red Salamanders may attain a total length of up to 71/8 inches (181 mm). On average, females attain larger sizes than males. The dorsal ground color is red or reddish orange, with numerous rounded black spots. In older specimens the red is not so bright and the black spots are more diffuse. The sexes can not be distinguished by external characteristics. Habitats and habits: Red Salamanders occur in and around springs, seeps, and small woodland streams; well shaded streams are preferred. In Erie County, Red Salamanders may be active from early April to midoctober. Courtship and mating may take place in fall or spring. The eggs are laid under a rock in flowing water between late August and October, and hatch later in the fall or early winter. The larvae may not metamorphose until approximately 3.5 years after hatching. Distribution: In Pennsylvania, Red Salamanders occur throughout most of the commonwealth. In Erie County they have been found in eight townships (Map 20). Status and concerns: In Pennsylvania there is no closed season on Red Salamanders. The daily limit is 1 and the possession limit is 1 (PFBC 2011). Red Salamander Larva. 53

54 Common Mudpuppy, Necturus maculosus Adult (top); eggs (bottom). 54

55 Common Mudpuppy, Necturus maculosus Description: Common Mudpuppies may attain a total length of up to 191/8 inches (486 mm). On average, females attain larger sizes than males. The dorsal ground color is brown to reddish brown, with dark blotches. There are well-developed external gills, even in adults. During the breeding season, males can be distinguished from females by having a swollen cloacal region, with paired papillae posteriorly. Habitats and habits: Common Mudpuppies are fully aquatic and found in streams, rivers, and lakes. In Erie County they are likely active all year round, but observations have been made from early April to midoctober. Courtship and mating takes place in the fall; however, egg-laying does not occur until the late May or early June the following year. The eggs are attached to the underside of a suitable rock. The female will brood the eggs until they hatch, usually in days. The larvae mature in 3-5 years; adults retain external gills. Distribution: In Pennsylvania, Common Mudpuppies are found in the western portion of the commonwealth. In Erie County they have been reported from fewer than half of the townships (Map 21). Status and concerns: In Pennsylvania there is no open season on Common Mudpuppies. The daily limit is zero and the possession limit is zero (PFBC 2011). 55

56 Eastern Newt, Notophthalmus viridescens Eft (top); Adult (bottom). 56

57 Eastern Newt, Notophthalmus viridescens Description: Eastern Newts may attain a total length of up to 51/2 inches (140 mm). Males and females attain similar sizes. The dorsal ground color varies from bright red in efts (juveniles) to yellowish brown or yellowish green in adults. Along each side of the dorsum is a row of blackbordered red spots. The ventral surface is yellowish with numerous small black spots. During the breeding season, males can be distinguished from females by having relatively broader tails and black cornified ridges on the inner thighs and toes. Habitats and habits: Eastern Newts have a three-part life cycle, with the larvae being aquatic; a terrestrial eft (juvenile) stage, and an aquatic adult stage. Adult Eastern Newts are found in both temporary and permanent bodies of water. The terrestrial eft stage is often found in wooded areas, meadows, and old fields. In Erie County, Eastern Newts have been observed from late March to late October. Courtship, mating, and egg-laying primarily occur in the spring. The eggs are laid on the stems of aquatic vegetation and hatch in 3-5 weeks. The larvae metamorphose into terrestrial efts in about 12 weeks. The eft stage may last for as long as 7 years, after which they mature and migrate to ponds or other semi-permanent water in the fall. Distribution: In Pennsylvania, Eastern Newts are common and widespread. In Erie County they are reported from the majority of townships (Map 22). Status and concerns: In Pennsylvania there is no closed season on Eastern Newts. The daily limit is 1 and the possession limit is 1 (PFBC 2011). 57

58 Longtail Salamander. 58

59 POSSIBLE SPECIES Two amphibian species, the Midland Chorus Frog (Pseudacris triseriata) and the Longtail Salamander (Eurycea longicauda) have been reported to occur in Erie County, Pennsylvania despite a lack of museum specimens or locality-specific literature records (Gray and Lethaby 2008). The Midland Chorus Frog has been found in adjacent Warren County, Pennsylvania, and Ashtabula County, Ohio. Midland Chorus Frogs are small and may attain a total length of up to 1½ inches (38 mm). In form and color they resemble Spring Peepers, but have a pattern of three dark stripes on the body, and a backwards-pointing triangle on the head. The Longtail Salamander has been found in adjacent Crawford and Warren Counties in Pennsylvania; Ashtabula County, Ohio; and Chautauqua County, New York. Longtail Salamanders may attain a total length of up to 7¾ inches (197 mm). In form and color they resemble Northern Two-lined Salamanders, but have the lines on the sides broken up into spots, and a herringbone pattern on the tail. If the reader should come across either of these two species in Erie County, a photograph should be taken and the image(s) sent to the author at: brachystoma@hotmail.com 59

60 NONNATIVE SPECIES The only nonnative species of amphibian reported in Erie County, Pennsylvania was a Cuban Treefrog (Osteopilus septentrionalis) found among plants in a greenhouse (Gray and Lethaby 2008). Due to the harsh winters and associated freezing temperatures that occur in Erie County, this species would be very unlikely to establish itself there. Regardless of whether it s a native or nonnative species, never release a pet amphibian into the wild. Doing so may threaten endemic populations by introducing disease, such as the chytrid fungus that has been linked to some amphibian declines. Furthermore, releasing a nonnative species into Pennsylvania waters is unlawful. If you have a pet amphibian and tire of it, try to find it a home with a responsible and dedicated keeper. 60

61 IDENTIFYING TADPOLES Tadpoles are more difficult to identify than are the adult frogs. In most cases the tadpole must be anesthetized and examined with a microscope. However, several species in Erie County can be relatively easy to identify without the aforementioned measures. The purpose of this section is to allow the reader to identify the tadpoles of several of the more common species of frogs and toads. Figure 2. American Toad tadpoles. American Toad and Fowler s Toad. There is no easy way to distinguish between the tadpoles of these two species, although in most cases, because they are more common in the county, you will observe 61

62 American Toad tadpoles. The tadpoles are less than an inch in length, and dark, nearly black, with a rounded tail tip (Figure 2). Figure 3. Eastern Gray Treefrog tadpole. Eastern Gray Treefrog. The tadpoles of the Eastern Gray Treefrog are less than 11/2 inches long, and have a greenish body with gold flecks. The tail has orange to red pigment with black blotches and has a pointed tip (Figure 3). 62

63 Spring Peeper. The tadpoles of the Spring Peeper are less than 11/4 inches long, and have a greenish body with gold flecks. The tail has dark pigment along the margins and tail tip (Figure 4). Figure 4. Spring Peeper tadpoles. Figure 5. Bullfrog tadpole. 63

64 Bullfrog. The tadpoles of the Bullfrog are large and attain a total length of up to 51/4 inches long. The body is greenish with yellow flecks, with the upper half of the tail containing well-defined black spots (Figure 5). Figure 6. Bronze Frog tadpole. Bronze Frog. The tadpoles of the Bronze Frog may attain a total length of up to 4 inches. The body is greenish with dark blotches. The tail also contains dark blotches (Figure 6). 64

65 GLOSSARY Aquatic: Pertaining to things that live in water. Arboreal: Pertaining to things that live or are found in trees and/or shrubs. Autotomize: Autotomy means to self cut. Autotomy is the ability of some salamanders to drop portions of their body, such as the tail. When the tail is the appendage broken off it is called caudal autotomy. Canthus rostralis: The ridge that runs from eye to nostril, and is lightly pigmented in some salamanders. Cryoprotectant: A substance that protects liquids from freezing (i.e., antifreeze). Some frogs use glucose or glycerol as a cryoprotectant. Dorsal: Refers to the top of the body. Dorsolateral folds: In some frogs, ridges along the upper sides of the body that run from behind the eyes to the hind legs. Ecotone: An area at the edge of two habitats, such as an old field and forest. Eft: The terrestrial juvenile stage of newts. Larva (e): The juvenile stage of amphibians. In frogs and toads the larvae are called tadpoles. 65

66 Lateral: Refers to the side of the body. Lateral stripe: A light or dark colored stripe that extends along the length of the body on the side. Mental gland: In some male salamanders, a light rounded area on the chin used during courtship to stimulate females to breed. Metamorphose: To transform from an aquatic larval form to a terrestrial (or aquatic in the case of the Mudpuppy and Hellbender) adult form. Nasolabial: Refers to the area between the nostrils and the upper lip. In some salamanders there is a groove that runs from each nostril to the upper lip. Terrestrial: Pertaining to things that live on land. Tympanum: The external ear covering of frogs and toads. Ventral: Refers to the bottom of an animal. Vernal pool: A temporary body of water that is filled by spring rains or snow melt, and persists into summer, but may dry by late summer or fall. 66

67 MAPS Map 1. American Toad. Map 2. Fowler s Toad Map 3. Eastern Gray Treefrog. Map 4. Spring Peeper. Map 5. Bullfrog. Map 6. Bronze Frog. 67

68 Map 7. Pickerel Frog. Map 8. Northern Leopard Frog. Map 9. Wood Frog. Map 10. Jefferson Salamander. Map 11. Spotted Salamander. Map 12. Hellbender. 68

69 Map 13. Northern Dusky Salamander. Map. 14 Allegheny Dusky Salamander. Map 15. Northern Two-lined Salamander. Map 16. Spring Salamander. Map 17. Four-toed Salamander. Map 18. Northern Redback Salamander. 69

70 Map 19. Northern Slimy Salamander. Map 20. Red Salamander. Map 21. Common Mudpuppy. Map 22. Eastern Newt. Larval Eastern Newt. 70

71 BIBLIOGRAPHY Bishop, S. C The salamanders of New York. New York State Museum Bulletin 324. Briggs, R. P Appalachian Plateaus province and the Eastern Lake section of the Central Lowland province. Pp In Shultz, C. H. (ed.). The Geology of Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania Geological Survey and the Pittsburgh Geological Society. Special Publication No.1. Conant, R., and J. T. Collins Peterson Field Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians of Eastern and Central North America. Third Edition, Expanded. Houghton Mifflin, Boston. xviii+616 pp. Collins, J. T., and T. W. Taggert Standard Common and Current Scientific Names for North American Amphibians, Turtles, Reptiles, and Crocodilians. Sixth Edition. Publication of the Center for North American Herpetology, Lawrence, Kansas. iv + 44 pp. Delano, H. L Lake Erie shoreline. Pp In Shultz, C. H. (ed.). The Geology of Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania Geological Survey and the Pittsburgh Geological Society. Special Publication No.1. Elliott, L., C. Gerhardt, and C. Davidson The Frogs and Toads of North America. Houghton Mifflin, Boston. 343 pp. 71

72 Fontanella, F. M., C. R. Feldman, M. E. Sidall, and F. T. Burbrink Phylogeography of Diadophis punctatus: Extensive lineage diversity and repeated patterns of historical demography in a trans-continental snake. Molecular Phylogenetics 46(2008): Gray, B. S., and M. Lethaby The amphibians and reptiles of Erie County, Pennsylvania. Bull. Maryland Herp. Soc. 44(2): Hulse, A. C Eastern Hellbender. Pp In Steele, M. A., M. C. Brittingham, T. J. Maret, and J. F. Merritt (eds.). Terrestrial Vertebrates of Pennsylvania: A Complete Guide to Species of Conservation Concern. The John Hopkins University Press, Baltimore. 507 pp. Hulse, A. C., C. J. McCoy, and E. J. Censky Amphibians and Reptiles of Pennsylvania and the Northeast. Cornell University Press, Ithaca. 419 pp. Koval, R. L Fowler s Toad. Pp In Steele, M. A., M. C. Brittingham, T. J. Maret, and J. F. Merritt (eds.). Terrestrial Vertebrates of Pennsylvania: A Complete Guide to Species of Conservation Concern. The John Hopkins University Press, Baltimore. 507 pp. NOAA National Weather Service Forecast Office, Cleveland, Ohio. html accessed 5 January

73 Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission Pennsylvania Fishing Summary: Summary of fishing regulations and laws. Pfingsten, R. A., and F. L. Downs (eds.) Salamanders of Ohio. Bulletin of the Ohio Biological Survey 7(2): Rossi, T Climate. Pp In Shultz, C. H. (ed.). The Geology of Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania Geological Survey and the Pittsburgh Geological Society. Special Publication No.1. Schooler, E. E Pleistocene beach ridges of northwestern Pennsylvania. General Geology Report 64. Pennsylvania Geological Survey. Steele, M. A., M. C. Brittingham, T. J. Maret, and J. F. Merritt (eds.) Terrestrial Vertebrates of Pennsylvania: A Complete Guide to Species of Conservation Concern. The John Hopkins University Press, Baltimore. 507 pp. Walker, C. F The amphibians of Ohio. Part 1: The frogs and toads (Order Salientia). Ohio State Museum Science Bulletin 1: Wright, A. H North American Anura: Life histories of the Anura of Ithaca, New York. Carnegie Institute of Washington Publication pp. 73

74 Brian S. Gray with Midland Rat Snake, Scotophis spiloides. 74

75 Back cover image of an American Toad, Anaxyrus americanus by Brian S. Gray. 75

76 Brian S. Gray 76