Analysis of Sampling Technique Used to Investigate Matching of Dorsal Coloration of Pacific Tree Frogs Hyla regilla with Substrate Color

Size: px
Start display at page:

Download "Analysis of Sampling Technique Used to Investigate Matching of Dorsal Coloration of Pacific Tree Frogs Hyla regilla with Substrate Color"

Transcription

1 Analysis of Sampling Technique Used to Investigate Matching of Dorsal Coloration of Pacific Tree Frogs Hyla regilla with Substrate Color Madeleine van der Heyden, Kimberly Debriansky, and Randall Clarke Instructor: Edward Connor Abstract We conducted a preliminary study to estimate the sample size needed to achieve sufficient statistical power to test the hypothesis that the dorsal color of Pacific tree frog (Hyla regilla) tends to match the substrate color. The data were collected in a meadow near Beartrap Meadow in the Tahoe National Forest in July Twenty-three Pacific tree frogs were captured and photographed while walking a random zigzag path through the meadow. The decision regarding a substrate match was based on a two-out-of-three person agreement. It was determined that out of the 23 Pacific tree frogs encountered, 19 frogs did and 4 did not match the background color. The Binomial test was used for our statistical analysis and the Binomial parameter for the alternative hypothesis was set at p = 0.7. Our results indicated that we achieved sufficient statistical power with our sampling technique and that the Pacific tree frogs generally do match their substrate color.

2 Introduction The Pacific tree frog (Hyla regilla) is a small ( cm) frog found mainly on the ground (despite its name) in a variety of plant communities from sea level to high mountains from southwest Canada to Baja California and from the Pacific Coast to western Montana. A black or dark brown eye stripe is nearly always present on the Pacific tree frog but its dorsal coloration is highly variable. The dorsal and leg colors range from green to tan, reddish, rust, copper, gray, cream, brown, black, or even blue. Some frogs have mixed colors such as green and copper or blue (Stebbins 2003). According to Stebbins, the Pacific tree frog is capable of changing from dark to light phase within a few minutes. However, Stebbins claims that the basic different color morphs do not change. Similarly, Resnick and Jameson (1963) claim that the color of Hyla regilla can increase or decrease in brightness in response to hormones, light, and temperatures but that this frog is fixed in hue, meaning that a green frog cannot change its color from green to brown. Resnick and Jameson report that the green color of the Pacific tree frog is genetically determined. They suggest that different alleles control the amount of guanine and carotenoid transcribed that result in the many different shades of a color. On the other hand, a study by Wente and Philips (2003) has shown that in the same Hyla regilla population both individuals that are able to change color and ones that are fixed color morphs are present. Wente and Philips (2003) also showed that color change requires days to weeks rather than minutes to hours. In nature, some animals are protected by cryptic coloration making them difficult to distinguish against their background so that visual detection by predators is decreased. Background matching, disruptive coloration and countershading are three ways of achieving crypsis. Matching dorsal surface and substrate color is believed to be important for the Pacific tree frog in order to escape detection of visual predators. According to Tuomi and Jormalainen (1999), the probability of being detected in a homogeneous habitat can be decreased by increasing the degree of crypsis against that background. In other words, a Pacific tree frog sitting in green grass can decrease the probability of being detected by being as green as the grass. Decreasing the probability of detection by a predator in heterogeneous habitats, on the other hand, is more difficult because the degree of crypsis of a given coloration and the probability of encountering a predator may vary spatially. Assuming a higher degree of crypsis decreases the probability of detection by a predator, we ultimately wanted to determine if the skin color of Hyla regilla in a given habitat generally matches the background color on which these anurans are located. However, prior to conducting the actual study, we needed to carry out a pilot study in order to estimate the sample size necessary to achieve sufficient statistical power to test the hypothesis that the dorsal color of Pacific tree frogs tends to match the substrate color. Methods Data Collection The study area was a meadow located northwest of Beartrap Meadow in the Sierra Nevada Mountains within the Tahoe National Forest about 5 miles north of Hwy. 49 between Bassetts and Yuba Pass on Forest Road 09 (Figure 1).

3 Figure 1. The light green dot on the map above indicates the approximate location of the study area in the Tahoe National Forest north of Highway 49 between Bassetts and the Yuba Pass. In order to conduct the study, a map was obtained from the Energetic Math Group. Drawn onto this map was the randomly walked route by the three observers searching for Pacific tree frogs. All three participants lined up in the shape of a comb and slowly walked straight lines randomly zigzagging the meadow (Figure 2).

4 Figure 2. The aerial photograph shows the study area called North of Beartrap Meadow with the zigzag path walked and all the Pacific tree frogs (numbered 1-23) captured along this pathway. The green dots represent the frogs that matched their background and the green dots with a black center symbolize the non-matching Hyla regilla. The study meadow was found to be particularly suitable for this study because it included a variety of habitats with substrates of different colors. Parts of the meadow were covered with lush dark green grass whereas other vegetated sections had a brownish color to

5 them because some plant stems and tips being rust to brown colored. Again other locations were open with exposed brown soil. Some areas were scattered with wood pieces and rocks. In certain areas, trees provided shade and, depending how much sunlight reached the ground, the color of he ground consequently appeared darker or lighter. A shallow pond was located in the southeastern corner of the meadow. The ground around this small pond was dark gray brown. Therefore, this heterogeneous study area provided a variety of background colors as well as Hyla regilla with a variety of skin colors. For the purpose of our study, we assessed both juvenile and mature frogs but excluded any new metamorphs. We defined metamorph as the stage when a frog first emerges out of the water and with its tail completely absorbed until its color changes from nearly black to being colorful. Metamorphs are very dark colored and about 1 cm in size. In order to avoid counting metamorphs, the length of each frog (head to tail) was measured. Any Pacific tree frogs with a body length of 1 cm or less were not included in this study. Whenever a Hyla regilla was spotted, it was quickly and carefully captured and photographed by a talented photographer who was hired specifically for this study. The location of each frog was carefully marked on the map (Figure 2). The photographer not only took a picture of the frog but also of the substrate which usually consisted of green grass, dark green leaves, bare brown ground, light brown wood chips, grey rocks, or dark brown mud. Flags were used to mark the location at which a frog was first spotted. This was necessary since the frogs, when approached, often jumped a few feet away in an attempt to escape. Figure 3. Six examples of dorsal coloration in Pacific tree frog. The frog on the top left is light green like the grass in which it was found. The frog in the top middle was found in typical wetland vegetation which was rust to green colored. The Hyla to the top right was detected on green overall vegetation with some plant leaves having a bluish shimmer. In the bottom row, the left frog was caught in an area with sparse grass and exposed beige colored soil, the frog in the middle was found in a shady area with lush dark green grass, and the nearly beige frog to the right was found on light brown exposed soil with rocks and beige wood chips nearby.

6 Each time a frog was captured, the three investigators took a good long look at the frog s skin color and pattern (Figure 3). A second good long look was taken at the substrate on which the frog had sat. Then each of the observers decided for him- or herself whether the frog did or did not match the background. The answer was either yes or no and once it was announced, the answer of the majority (either 2/3 or 3/3) was recorded. Statistical Analysis Under our null hypothesis, the probability of skin color substrate matches and nonmatches was p = 0.5 or, in other words, the skin color substrate matches were equally likely as non-matches. In that case, the odds of a color substrate match were the same as a non-match (odds =1.0). While strolling across the meadow, 23 frogs were encountered which are the 23 trials in our case. In order to conclude, at the α = 0.05 level, that the matching of the frog and substrate color was statistically significant and to be able to reject the null hypothesis that frogs are equally likely to match as not match the substrate, we had to observe 15 or more matches. The Binomial test (formula shown below) was used to calculate power relative to our alternative hypothesis and hence the sample size necessary to have a specified level of power. The alternative hypothesis had to be stated in terms of the Binomial parameter p. Assuming that color matching was more frequent than a 50/50 proposition, we set the Binomial parameter for the alternative hypothesis at p = 0.7 so that the probability of a skin color substrate match was 0.7 and that of a non-match 0.3. B n r n r ( n, r : p) = Cr p (1 p), where B(n, r : p) is the Binomial probability of getting r successes in n trials. To calculate the power (1-β) of this test, under the alternative hypothesis, the probability of being in the area of acceptance under the null hypothesis when the alternative hypothesis is true was calculated. The probability of getting 14, 13, 12, etc. matches in 23 trials with the Binomial parameter p = 0.7 was calculated. The sum of these values was the Type II error probability = β. Power is then just 1 - β. Results Out of 23 trials, 19 frogs matched the background and 4 did not match the substrate. The length of the frog was recorded to exclude metamorphs. The smallest frog was 1.2 cm and had well developed dorsal coloration. Table 1 shows the color assessments for each of the 23 frogs we encountered and whether the frog s color did or did not match the substrate color on which they were found. The descriptions of the two columns to the right show how substrate color varied as much as the dorsal color of the Pacific tree frogs.

7 Table 1. Matches between frogs and substrate, body length of frog, frog color, and substrate color Frog # Match Body length Frog color Substrate color * (cm) 1 no 1.2 copper, yellow, green sparse light green grass and beige soil 2 yes 1.8 light green light green plants 3 yes 2.0 light green light green plants 4 no 2.0 light green light green and brown plants 5 yes 1.8 beige green light green plants 6 yes 1.6 green with copper back light green and brown 7 yes 1.6 green faint leopard pattern sparse light green grass 8 yes 1.8 leopard pattern and green sparse light green grass and beige soil 9 yes 2.0 leopard pattern and green tall light green grass 10 no 2.1 green with copper back light green plants 11 yes 1.9 green light green plants 12 yes 2.2 green light green plants 13 no 2.4 darker green lush dark green grass, shady area 14 yes 2.2 darker green lush dark green grass, shady area 15 yes 1.8 dark green dark green grass, shady area 16 yes 2.3 green, beige leopard green brown plants 17 yes 3.3 blue, green lush dark blue green plants, shady area 18 yes 2.5 bright green lush light green 19 yes 2.0 green copper broken brown and green light plants 20 yes 2.4 green, copper, beige stripe beige logs, rocks, green brown plants 21 yes 2.0 green, copper stripe beige logs, green brown plants 22 yes 1.8 mud gray exposed gray soil 23 yes 1.6 dark exposed gray soil * 19 matches and 4 non-matches The probability of 14 matches was 0.109, that of 13 matches 0.065, etc. Table 2 shows the values calculated using the Binomial Distribution function. The probability of a Type II error (β) was 0.227, the sum of the tabulated values. Consequently the power of the test used was determined to be Table 2: Values calculated from using the Binomial Distribution function r Probability of r, given Binomial parameter of p = β (β - Type II error probability) 1- β (Power: 1-β)

8 Figure 3. A Pacific tree frog that matches the grass and soil substrate so well that it cannot be easily detected upon visual inspection. The dorsal coloration of the majority of frogs matched the background as shown on this image. Figure 3 illustrates one example of the extent of color matching between Pacific tree frogs and the substrate. The dorsal surface color of Hyla regilla generally matched the background color. Discussion We found that our technique of sampling frogs in the study meadow was adequate to assess the color matching of Pacific tree frogs and the substrate on which they were found. With a sample size of 23 frogs, 15 or more matches would lead to rejection of the null hypothesis that apparent substrate matching was no more likely than not matching the substrate at the α = 0.05 level. We sampled 23 frogs, 19 of which matched the substrate and 4 frogs did not match the substrate. The null hypothesis was rejected in favor of the alternative hypothesis that Pacific tree frogs tend to match the substrate color. We also determined that the power of our test relative to the alternative hypothesis that tree frogs should match the substrate 70% of the time was for a sample size of only 23 frogs! Never was a green frog found on beige soil. The four frogs that did not match the substrate were only slightly more detectable that the other 19 frogs. Since we used eyes and our own judgment to determine whether a frog did or did not match the substrate, our entire study may be biased. Wente and Philips (2003) used a

9 spectraradiometer to measure the reflectance of the dorsal surface of each frog. It would be interesting to see if the results of our study would have been different had we used a more sophisticated method to measure the frog skin color. We conclude that the dorsal coloration of Pacific tree frog generally matches the background color even in a heterogeneous habitat. However, from this study we cannot tell whether the color of the frogs changes over time or not. We also cannot say if there are three different morphs present in this population as suggested by Wente and Philips (2003). Perhaps some frogs that were caught were fixed green or brown morphs. If such morphs would have been placed into a habitat with a different background color, they would most likely been detected and eliminated by visual predators. Perhaps we also encountered morphs that actually can change color, but because it may take days or weeks to change color as suggested by Wente and Philips (2003), we would have never been able to differentiate such morphs from fixed morphs. References Resnick, L. E. and D. L. Jameson Color polymorphism in Pacific Tree frogs. Science. 142: Stebbins, R.C A Field Guide to Western Reptiles and Amphibians, 3 rd ed. Boston, MA: Houghton Mifflin Company. Tuomi, J. and V. Jormalainen Optimization of cryptic coloration in heterogeneous habitats. Biological Journal of the Linnean Society 67: Wente, W. H. and J. B. Philips Fixed green and brown color morphs and a novel colorchanging morph of the Pacific tree frog Hyla regilla. The American Naturalist. 162:

This Coloring Book has been adapted for the Wildlife of the Table Rocks

This Coloring Book has been adapted for the Wildlife of the Table Rocks This Coloring Book has been adapted for the Wildlife of the Table Rocks All images and some writing belong to: Additional writing by: The Table Rocks Environmental Education Program I became the national

More information

Breeding behavior of the boreal toad, Bufo boreas boreas (Baird and Girard), in western Montana

Breeding behavior of the boreal toad, Bufo boreas boreas (Baird and Girard), in western Montana Great Basin Naturalist Volume 31 Number 2 Article 13 6-30-1971 Breeding behavior of the boreal toad, Bufo boreas boreas (Baird and Girard), in western Montana Jeffrey Howard Black University of Oklahoma,

More information

11/4/13. Frogs and Toads. External Anatomy WFS 340. The following anatomy slides should help you w/ ID.

11/4/13. Frogs and Toads. External Anatomy WFS 340. The following anatomy slides should help you w/ ID. Frogs and Toads WFS 340 The following slides do not include all 21 species covered during the TAMP workshop Graves modified an old slide presentation from a former course in an attempt to provide another

More information

Common Tennessee Amphibians WFS 340

Common Tennessee Amphibians WFS 340 Common Tennessee Amphibians WFS 340 Order Anura Frogs and Toads American toad Bufo americanus Medium to large toad (5.1-9.0 cm) Dorsum gray, brown, olive, or brick red in color Light middorsal stripe (not

More information

A.13 BLAINVILLE S HORNED LIZARD (PHRYNOSOMA BLAINVILLII)

A.13 BLAINVILLE S HORNED LIZARD (PHRYNOSOMA BLAINVILLII) A. BLAINVILLE S HORNED LIZARD (PHRYNOSOMA BLAINVILLII) A.. Legal and Other Status Blainville s horned lizard is designated as a Department of Fish and Game (DFG) Species of Concern. A.. Species Distribution

More information

JUNE 15-30, 2015 NATURAL HISTORY NOTES FOR EASTVIEW By Dick Harlow SILVERY BLUE

JUNE 15-30, 2015 NATURAL HISTORY NOTES FOR EASTVIEW By Dick Harlow SILVERY BLUE SILVERY BLUE Glaucopsyche lygdamus, (M) Silvery Blue This fellow is a little bigger than the end of a man s thumb, energetically flying about or over wet ground, looking for either a female or for minerals

More information

AMPHIBIAN AND REPTILE PRE-CONSTRUCTION SURVEYS AND PRIORITY SPECIES EVALUATION ADDENDUM

AMPHIBIAN AND REPTILE PRE-CONSTRUCTION SURVEYS AND PRIORITY SPECIES EVALUATION ADDENDUM Calligan Creek Hydroelectric Project FERC No. 13948 AMPHIBIAN AND REPTILE PRE-CONSTRUCTION SURVEYS AND PRIORITY SPECIES EVALUATION ADDENDUM Prepared for: Everett, WA Prepared by: Bellingham, WA Calligan

More information

Ernst Rupp and Esteban Garrido Grupo Jaragua El Vergel #33, Santo Domingo Dominican Republic

Ernst Rupp and Esteban Garrido Grupo Jaragua El Vergel #33, Santo Domingo Dominican Republic Summary of Black-capped Petrel (Pterodroma hasitata) Nesting Activity during the 2011/2012 Nesting Season at Loma del Toro and Morne Vincent, Hispaniola Introduction and Methods Ernst Rupp and Esteban

More information

1.5 C: Role of the Environment in Evolution Quiz

1.5 C: Role of the Environment in Evolution Quiz 1. Numbers of reported cases of bedbug infestations have been increasing over the past ten years in the United States. In an attempt to combat the infestations, people began using pesticides to kill the

More information

Typical Snakes Part # 1

Typical Snakes Part # 1 Advanced Snakes & Reptiles 1 Module # 4 Component # 5 Family Colubridae This is the most represented family in the course area and has the more commonly encountered species. All of these snakes only have

More information

The Cat Fanciers Association, Inc BREED COUNCIL POLL SIAMESE

The Cat Fanciers Association, Inc BREED COUNCIL POLL SIAMESE The Cat Fanciers Association, Inc. 2012 BREED COUNCIL POLL SIAMESE Breed Council Secretary: Virginia Wheeldon Grimsby ONT Total Members: 99 Ballots Received: 60 1. The following board-directed compromise

More information

Comparing Life Cycles

Comparing Life Cycles Image from Wikimedia Commons Pre-Visit Activity Grade Two Comparing Life Cycles Specific Learning Outcomes 2-1-01: Use appropriate vocabulary related to the investigations of growth and changes in animals.

More information

Taseko Prosperity Gold-Copper Project. Appendix 5-6-D

Taseko Prosperity Gold-Copper Project. Appendix 5-6-D Appendix 5-6-D Appendix C Prosperity Mine 2006 Amphibian Survey Field Report C.1 Methods C.2 Results Amphibian surveys were conducted between June 13 23, 2006 and July 24 August 2, 2006 using a combination

More information

The Cat Fanciers Association, Inc BREED COUNCIL POLL COLORPOINT SHORTHAIR

The Cat Fanciers Association, Inc BREED COUNCIL POLL COLORPOINT SHORTHAIR The Cat Fanciers Association, Inc. 2012 BREED COUNCIL POLL COLORPOINT SHORTHAIR Breed Council Secretary: Lorna Friemoth Ottawa, OH Total Members: 59 Ballots Received: 52 1. PROPOSED: Change the Rules of

More information

SECTION 3 IDENTIFYING ONTARIO S EASTERN MASSASAUGA RATTLESNAKE AND ITS LOOK-ALIKES

SECTION 3 IDENTIFYING ONTARIO S EASTERN MASSASAUGA RATTLESNAKE AND ITS LOOK-ALIKES SECTION 3 IDENTIFYING ONTARIO S EASTERN MASSASAUGA RATTLESNAKE AND ITS LOOK-ALIKES Ontario has a greater variety of snake species than any other province in Canada. The province is home to 17 species of

More information

Physical Description Meadow voles are small rodents with legs and tails, bodies, and ears.

Physical Description Meadow voles are small rodents with legs and tails, bodies, and ears. A Guide to Meadow Voles Identification, Biology and Control Methods Identification There are 5 species of Meadow Vole common to California. They are the California Vole, Long-tailed Vole, Creeping Vole,

More information

by Regina Velázquez Illustrated by Emilie Boon

by Regina Velázquez Illustrated by Emilie Boon by Regina Velázquez Illustrated by Emilie Boon HOUGHTON MIFFLIN by Regina Velázquez Illustrated by Emilie Boon Copyright by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced

More information

EIDER JOURNEY It s Summer Time for Eiders On the Breeding Ground

EIDER JOURNEY It s Summer Time for Eiders On the Breeding Ground The only location where Steller s eiders are still known to regularly nest in North America is in the vicinity of Barrow, Alaska (Figure 1). Figure 1. Current and historic Steller s eider nesting habitat.

More information

Parable of the Good Shepherd

Parable of the Good Shepherd Parable Parable of the good shepherd Lesson Notes Focus: The Shepherd and His Sheep (Matthew 18:12 14; Luke 15:1 7) parable core presentation The Material location: parable shelves pieces: parable box

More information

Silvery Legless Lizard (Anniella pulchra pulchra)

Silvery Legless Lizard (Anniella pulchra pulchra) Silvery Legless Lizard (Anniella pulchra pulchra) Status State: Federal: Population Trend Species of Concern None Global: Declining State: Declining Within Inventory Area: Unknown 1998 William Flaxington

More information

MAY 15-31, 2015 NATURAL HISTORY NOTES FOR EASTVIEW By Dick Harlow GREAT BLUE HERON

MAY 15-31, 2015 NATURAL HISTORY NOTES FOR EASTVIEW By Dick Harlow GREAT BLUE HERON GREAT BLUE HERON Great Blue Heron, Ardea herodias What a neat sight on the banks of Dragon s Pool, the Deer Meadow Retention Pond, May 1 st of this year! A Great Blue Heron, relaxed, preening, enjoying

More information

PROGRESS REPORT for COOPERATIVE BOBCAT RESEARCH PROJECT. Period Covered: 1 April 30 June Prepared by

PROGRESS REPORT for COOPERATIVE BOBCAT RESEARCH PROJECT. Period Covered: 1 April 30 June Prepared by PROGRESS REPORT for COOPERATIVE BOBCAT RESEARCH PROJECT Period Covered: 1 April 30 June 2014 Prepared by John A. Litvaitis, Tyler Mahard, Rory Carroll, and Marian K. Litvaitis Department of Natural Resources

More information

ZooTrek : Habitats. Grades 6 8

ZooTrek : Habitats. Grades 6 8 ZooTrek : Habitats Grades 6 8 HOW TO USE THE ZOO TREK Use the animals and exhibits highlighted in this Zoo Trek to help guide you on your visit through The Maryland Zoo. 1. Find the highlighted species

More information

Biology 164 Laboratory

Biology 164 Laboratory Biology 164 Laboratory CATLAB: Computer Model for Inheritance of Coat and Tail Characteristics in Domestic Cats (Based on simulation developed by Judith Kinnear, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia) Introduction

More information

The Western Pond Turtle: Natural and Evolutionary History

The Western Pond Turtle: Natural and Evolutionary History The Western Pond Turtle: Natural and Evolutionary History Adam Talamantes February, 10, 2011 This paper reviews literature on the western pond turtle. This paper presents the natural and evolutionary history

More information

BLACK OYSTERCATCHER NEST MONITORING PROTOCOL

BLACK OYSTERCATCHER NEST MONITORING PROTOCOL BLACK OYSTERCATCHER NEST MONITORING PROTOCOL In addition to the mid-late May population survey (see Black Oystercatcher abundance survey protocol) we will attempt to continue monitoring at least 25 nests

More information

We are adult American. Field Marks. We are the smallest falcons in North America. Like other falcons, we have long, pointed wings,

We are adult American. Field Marks. We are the smallest falcons in North America. Like other falcons, we have long, pointed wings, We are adult American Kestrels. Our scientific name is Falco sparverius. Field Marks We are the smallest falcons in North America. Like other falcons, we have long, pointed wings, long tails, and we flap

More information

Habitats and Field Methods. Friday May 12th 2017

Habitats and Field Methods. Friday May 12th 2017 Habitats and Field Methods Friday May 12th 2017 Announcements Project consultations available today after class Project Proposal due today at 5pm Follow guidelines posted for lecture 4 Field notebooks

More information

REPORT OF ACTIVITIES 2009 TURTLE ECOLOGY RESEARCH REPORT Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge 3 to 26 June 2009

REPORT OF ACTIVITIES 2009 TURTLE ECOLOGY RESEARCH REPORT Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge 3 to 26 June 2009 REPORT OF ACTIVITIES 2009 TURTLE ECOLOGY RESEARCH REPORT Crescent Lake National Wildlife Refuge 3 to 26 June 2009 A report submitted to Refuge Manager Mark Koepsel 17 July 2009 John B Iverson Dept. of

More information

Snail Habitat Preference Following Relocation Throughout the Rocky Intertidal: Pretty in Pink Chapter 6. By Julianna Rick and Sara Pratt

Snail Habitat Preference Following Relocation Throughout the Rocky Intertidal: Pretty in Pink Chapter 6. By Julianna Rick and Sara Pratt Snail Habitat Preference Following Relocation Throughout the Rocky Intertidal: Pretty in Pink Chapter 6 By Julianna Rick and Sara Pratt Abstract: This study tracks and recovers Common Periwinkles and Dog

More information

Exercise 4: Animal Adaptations

Exercise 4: Animal Adaptations Exercise 4: Animal Adaptations Introduction There are approximately 1.5 million species of organisms that have been described and named today. But, some scientists estimate that we may have as many as

More information

SPECIES AT RISK IN ALBERTA. Children s Activity Booklet

SPECIES AT RISK IN ALBERTA. Children s Activity Booklet SPECIES AT RISK IN ALBERTA Children s Activity Booklet Table of Contents You Where you live A duck and where it lives Animals and Plants Species at Risk, Habitat & Threats Grizzly Bear Swift Fox Wood

More information

Motuora island reptile monitoring report for common & Pacific gecko 2017

Motuora island reptile monitoring report for common & Pacific gecko 2017 Motuora island reptile monitoring report for common & Pacific gecko 7 Prepared by Su Sinclair August 7 Work on this monitoring project was carried out under a Wildlife Act Authority issued by the Department

More information

Butterfly House Informational Booklet

Butterfly House Informational Booklet Southwest Butterfly House Informational Booklet AT Monarch Wings feature an easily recognizable black, orange and white pattern. Adults make massive migrations from Aug-Oct, flying 1000 s of miles south

More information

A Guide to Physical Characteristics of Cats

A Guide to Physical Characteristics of Cats A Guide to Physical Characteristics of Cats www.petbehaviorsolutions.com 480-200-2011 Developed & Written by: Sam Kabbel, CPDT-KA, President Non Pedigreed Cat Breeds Domestic Short Hair Domestic Medium

More information

Pairing Behavior in Thick-Clawed Porcelain Crabs

Pairing Behavior in Thick-Clawed Porcelain Crabs Pairing Behavior in Thick-Clawed Porcelain Crabs Ben Perry Oregon Institute of Marine Biology, Charleston, Oregon 97420-0605, USA. ~ntroduction The Thick-Clawed Porcelain Crab, Pachycheles rudis, is an

More information

Caring for Your. Salamander. Tatiana Tomljanovic Weigl Publishers Inc.

Caring for Your. Salamander. Tatiana Tomljanovic Weigl Publishers Inc. Caring for Your Salamander Tatiana Tomljanovic Weigl Publishers Inc. Project Coordinator Heather C. Hudak Design Warren Clark Published by Weigl Publishers Inc. 350 5th Avenue, Suite 3304, PMB 6G New York,

More information

Big and Little A Lesson for Third Graders

Big and Little A Lesson for Third Graders Big and Little A Lesson for Third Graders by Jamee Petersen From Online Newsletter Issue Number 14, Summer 2004 Understanding the concept of scale is not easy for young children, but Steve Jenkins s book

More information

Threatened & Endangered Species Tour Post Visit Activity Packet

Threatened & Endangered Species Tour Post Visit Activity Packet Threatened & Endangered Species Tour Post Visit Activity Packet We hope that you enjoyed your visit to the Mill Mountain Zoo. To enhance you and your students experience, we have put together a little

More information

QUEENSLAND WHITE EGRETS

QUEENSLAND WHITE EGRETS QUEENSLAND WHITE EGRETS Text and images by Ian and Jill Brown The copyright of all images remains with the authors. The Eastern Great Egret (Ardea modesta) is the largest, with a height of 0.95-1.05m.

More information

LAB. NATURAL SELECTION

LAB. NATURAL SELECTION Period Date LAB. NATURAL SELECTION This game was invented by G. Ledyard Stebbins, a pioneer in the evolution of plants. The purpose of the game is to illustrate the basic principles and some of the general

More information

WildlifeCampus Advanced Snakes & Reptiles 1. Vipers and Adders

WildlifeCampus Advanced Snakes & Reptiles 1. Vipers and Adders Advanced Snakes & Reptiles 1 Module # 4 Component # 9 Viperidae - Hinged Front Fang Snakes This Family is divided into two sub-families. These are Old World and Modern / New World Adders. The predominant

More information

Introduction. Lizards: very diverse colour patterns intra- and interspecific differences in colour

Introduction. Lizards: very diverse colour patterns intra- and interspecific differences in colour Jessica Vroonen Introduction Lizards: very diverse colour patterns intra- and interspecific differences in colour Introduction Lizards intra- and interspecific differences in colour Introduction Lizards

More information

ZooTrek : Habitats. Grades 3 5

ZooTrek : Habitats. Grades 3 5 ZooTrek : Habitats Grades 3 5 HOW TO USE THE ZOO TREK Use the animals and exhibits highlighted in this Zoo Trek to help guide you on your visit through The Maryland Zoo. 1. Find the highlighted species

More information

Plestiodon (=Eumeces) fasciatus Family Scincidae

Plestiodon (=Eumeces) fasciatus Family Scincidae Plestiodon (=Eumeces) fasciatus Family Scincidae Living specimens: - Five distinct longitudinal light lines on dorsum - Juveniles have bright blue tail - Head of male reddish during breeding season - Old

More information

Total Members: 35 Ballots Received: 28 60% of Voting: 17

Total Members: 35 Ballots Received: 28 60% of Voting: 17 The Cat Fanciers Association, Inc. 2009 BREED COUNCIL POLL 7 BALINESE Total Members: 35 Ballots Received: 28 60% of Voting: 17 1. PROPOSED: This is a revision of the proposal put forth last year to clarify

More information

Silence of the Frogs Lexile 1040L

Silence of the Frogs Lexile 1040L daptation Silence of the Frogs Lexile 1040L 1 mphibians require specific habitats. They need a moist environment to be active and standing water to breed in. They need food for both tadpoles and adults.

More information

FEATURED PHOTO NOTES ON PLUMAGE MATURATION IN THE RED-TAILED TROPICBIRD

FEATURED PHOTO NOTES ON PLUMAGE MATURATION IN THE RED-TAILED TROPICBIRD FEATURED PHOTO NOTES ON PLUMAGE MATURATION IN THE RED-TAILED TROPICBIRD Ron Levalley, Mad River Biologists, 920 Samoa Blvd., Suite 210, Arcata, California 95521; ron@madriverbio.com PETER PYLE, The Institute

More information

A Comparison of morphological differences between Gymnophthalmus spp. in Dominica, West Indies

A Comparison of morphological differences between Gymnophthalmus spp. in Dominica, West Indies 209 A Comparison of morphological differences between Gymnophthalmus spp. in Dominica, West Indies Marie Perez June 2015 Texas A&M University Dr. Thomas Lacher and Dr. Jim Woolley Department of Wildlife

More information

A.13 BLAINVILLE S HORNED LIZARD (PHRYNOSOMA BLAINVILLII)

A.13 BLAINVILLE S HORNED LIZARD (PHRYNOSOMA BLAINVILLII) A. BLAINVILLE S HORNED LIZARD (PHRYNOSOMA BLAINVILLII) A.. Legal and Other Status Blainville s horned lizard is designated as a Department of Fish and Game (DFG) Species of Concern. A.. Species Distribution

More information

Animal Behavior OBJECTIVES PREPARATION SCHEDULE VOCABULARY BACKGROUND INFORMATION MATERIALS. For the class. The students.

Animal Behavior OBJECTIVES PREPARATION SCHEDULE VOCABULARY BACKGROUND INFORMATION MATERIALS. For the class. The students. activity 7 Animal Behavior OBJECTIVES Students observe the animals in the terrariums and draw conclusions about their typical behavior. The students continue to observe and record the behavior of the animals

More information

Coloring Book. Southern Piedmont Wildlife.

Coloring Book. Southern Piedmont Wildlife. Coloring Book Southern Piedmont Wildlife www.uscupstate.edu/fieldguide 1 Coloring Book Southern Piedmont Wildlife Table of Contents Mock Strawberry... 5 Striped Wintergreen... 7 Carolina Mantis... 9 Eastern

More information

Coloring Book. Southern Piedmont Wildlife.

Coloring Book. Southern Piedmont Wildlife. Coloring Book Southern Piedmont Wildlife Coloring Book Southern Piedmont Wildlife Coloring Book Wildlife: Mock Strawberry Striped Wintergreen Carolina Mantis Eastern Tiger Swallowtail Yellow Garden Spider

More information

The Armyworm in New Brunswick

The Armyworm in New Brunswick The Armyworm in New Brunswick Mythimna unipuncta (Haworth) Synonym: Pseudaletia unipuncta (Haworth) ISBN 978-1-4605-1679-9 Family: Noctuidae - Owlet moths and underwings Importance The armyworm attacks

More information

SALAMANDERS. Helpful Hints: What is a Salamander: Physical Characteristics:

SALAMANDERS. Helpful Hints: What is a Salamander: Physical Characteristics: SALAMANDERS Helpful Hints: This study guide will focus on s found in Illinois as well as those widespread in North America. The Eco-Meet test may consist of multiple choice, true/false, fill in the blank,

More information

I will learn to talk about. groups of animals animal characteristics animal habitats. Unit Unit 7

I will learn to talk about. groups of animals animal characteristics animal habitats. Unit Unit 7 I am a mammal with both fur and wings. I sleep during the day, and I hunt for food at night. I use high-pitched sounds to find my way around. What am I? I will learn to talk about groups of animals animal

More information

Site Selection and Environmental Assessment for Terrestrial Invertebrates, Amphibians and Reptiles

Site Selection and Environmental Assessment for Terrestrial Invertebrates, Amphibians and Reptiles Site Selection and Environmental Assessment for Terrestrial Invertebrates, Amphibians and Reptiles Kurt Mazur Senior Biologist North/South Consultants Inc., Winnipeg Senior Biologist Environmental Impact

More information

Blind and Thread Snakes

Blind and Thread Snakes Advanced Snakes & Reptiles 1 Module # 4 Component # 2 Family Typhlopidae They spend their lives underground in termite mounds in search of termites or similar insects. They are occasionally unearthed in

More information

Field Guide to Swan Lake

Field Guide to Swan Lake Field Guide to Swan Lake Mallard Our largest dabbling duck, the familiar Mallard is common in city ponds as well as wild areas. Male has a pale body and dark green head. Female is mottled brown with a

More information

Squamates of Connecticut

Squamates of Connecticut Squamates of Connecticut Reptilia Turtles are sisters to crocodiles and birds Yeah, birds are reptiles, haven t you watched Jurassic Park yet? Lizards and snakes are part of one clade called the squamates

More information

A tail of two scorpions Featured scientists: Ashlee Rowe and Matt Rowe from University of Oklahoma

A tail of two scorpions Featured scientists: Ashlee Rowe and Matt Rowe from University of Oklahoma A tail of two scorpions Featured scientists: Ashlee Rowe and Matt Rowe from University of Oklahoma Animals have evolved many ways to defend themselves against predators. Many species use camouflage to

More information

About Reptiles A Guide for Children. Cathryn Sill Illustrated by John Sill

About Reptiles A Guide for Children. Cathryn Sill Illustrated by John Sill About Reptiles About Reptiles A Guide for Children Cathryn Sill Illustrated by John Sill For the One who created reptiles. Genesis 1:24 Published by PEACHTREE PUBLISHERS, LTD. 1700 Chattahoochee Avenue

More information

Waterfowl Along the Road

Waterfowl Along the Road Waterfowl Along the Road Grade Level Third to Sixth Subject Areas Identification & Classification Bird Watching Content Standards Duration 20 minute Visitor Center Investigation Field Trip: 45 minutes

More information

MA41 Colour variability and the ecological use of colour in the chameleons and geckos of Mahamavo

MA41 Colour variability and the ecological use of colour in the chameleons and geckos of Mahamavo MA41 Colour variability and the ecological use of colour in the chameleons and geckos of Mahamavo Colour and the ability to change colour are some of the most striking features of lizards. Unlike birds

More information

Texas Quail Index. Result Demonstration Report 2016

Texas Quail Index. Result Demonstration Report 2016 Texas Quail Index Result Demonstration Report 2016 Cooperators: Jerry Coplen, County Extension Agent for Knox County Amanda Gobeli, Extension Associate Dr. Dale Rollins, Statewide Coordinator Circle Bar

More information

Impact of colour polymorphism and thermal conditions on thermoregulation, reproductive success, and development in Vipera aspis

Impact of colour polymorphism and thermal conditions on thermoregulation, reproductive success, and development in Vipera aspis Impact of colour polymorphism and thermal conditions on thermoregulation, reproductive success, and development in Vipera aspis Sylvain Dubey, Johan Schürch, Joaquim Golay, Briséïs Castella, Laura Bonny,

More information

Announcements. Results: due today at 5pm for weekend feedback, otherwise due at Monday at 9am

Announcements. Results: due today at 5pm for weekend feedback, otherwise due at Monday at 9am Feeding Announcements Field notebooks due today, right after class Results: due today at 5pm for weekend feedback, otherwise due at Monday at 9am Email (as usual): Subject: Field Herpetology Results File

More information

Anurans of Idaho. Recent Taxonomic Changes. Frog and Toad Characteristics

Anurans of Idaho. Recent Taxonomic Changes. Frog and Toad Characteristics Anurans of Idaho Fa mil y Genera Species Ascaphidae Tailed Frog Ascaphus 1 Bufonidae True Toads Bufo 2 Pelobatidae Spadefoots Spea (Scaphiopus) 1 Hylidae Tree frogs Pseudacris 2 Ranidae True Frogs Rana

More information

SCOTTISH FOLD. Breed Council Secretary: Bruce Russell Cambridge, Ontario Total Members: 29 Ballots Received: 16

SCOTTISH FOLD. Breed Council Secretary: Bruce Russell Cambridge, Ontario Total Members: 29 Ballots Received: 16 SCOTTISH FOLD Breed Council Secretary: Bruce Russell Cambridge, Ontario Total Members: 29 Ballots Received: 16 1. PROPOSED: Revise the Scottish Fold Rules of Registration to allow for the registration

More information

CHAPTER ONE. The Jurassic Coast

CHAPTER ONE. The Jurassic Coast CHAPTER ONE The Jurassic Coast Come on, Sparky! I called as I ran onto the beach. Sparky, my Labrador puppy, was still in the car park, nose to the ground, his little tail wagging in excitement. He scrambled

More information

NATURAL SELECTION SIMULATION

NATURAL SELECTION SIMULATION ANTHR 1-L BioAnthro Lab Name: NATURAL SELECTION SIMULATION INTRODUCTION Natural selection is an important process underlying the theory of evolution as proposed by Charles Darwin and Alfred Russell Wallace.

More information

ACTIVITY #2: TURTLE IDENTIFICATION

ACTIVITY #2: TURTLE IDENTIFICATION TURTLE IDENTIFICATION TOPIC What are some unique characteristics of the various Ontario turtle species? BACKGROUND INFORMATION For detailed information regarding Ontario turtles, see Turtles of Ontario

More information

Rana catesbeiana [now Lithobates catesbeianus] Family Ranidae

Rana catesbeiana [now Lithobates catesbeianus] Family Ranidae Rana catesbeiana [now Lithobates catesbeianus] Family Ranidae - Body large and heavy - Legs very stout - NO dorsolateral fold along sides of body - Distinct fold from eye curving downward along tympanum

More information

A final programmatic report to: SAVE THE TIGER FUND. Scent Dog Monitoring of Amur Tigers-V ( ) March 1, March 1, 2006

A final programmatic report to: SAVE THE TIGER FUND. Scent Dog Monitoring of Amur Tigers-V ( ) March 1, March 1, 2006 1 A final programmatic report to: SAVE THE TIGER FUND Scent Dog Monitoring of Amur Tigers-V (2005-0013-017) March 1, 2005 - March 1, 2006 Linda Kerley and Galina Salkina PROJECT SUMMARY We used scent-matching

More information

Arctic Tern Migration Simulation

Arctic Tern Migration Simulation Arctic Tern Migration Simulation Background information: The artic tern holds the world record for the longest migration. It spends summers in the Artic (June-August) and also in the Antarctic (Dec.-Feb.).

More information

Quail CSI / Scent Station

Quail CSI / Scent Station Even if you re on the right track, you ll get run over if you just sit there, Anonymous Objectives: The students will - observe animal tracks distinguish between predators and prey draw inferences based

More information

4-H Small Animals. Birds Gerbils Hamsters Mice Reptiles

4-H Small Animals. Birds Gerbils Hamsters Mice Reptiles 4-H Small Animals Birds Gerbils Hamsters Mice Reptiles 4-H Small Animal Project Introduction Raising and caring for small animal pets can be lots of fun and also educational. There are many different kinds

More information

Bew *Blue-Eyed White* Surface color: Pure White Undercolor: Pure White

Bew *Blue-Eyed White* Surface color: Pure White Undercolor: Pure White Self Group (Non-Agouti) The self group consists of black, blue, chocolate, and lilac. Also REW and BEW fall into the self group but have to be bred a certain way. Self is to have the same color over the

More information

Texas Quail Index. Result Demonstration Report 2016

Texas Quail Index. Result Demonstration Report 2016 Texas Quail Index Result Demonstration Report 2016 Cooperators: Josh Kouns, County Extension Agent for Baylor County Amanda Gobeli, Extension Associate Dr. Dale Rollins, Statewide Coordinator Bill Whitley,

More information

Basin Wildlife. Giant Garter Snake

Basin Wildlife. Giant Garter Snake Basin Wildlife The multiple-species program of the NBHCP addresses a total of 26 wetland and up land plant and animal species. The giant garter snake and Swainson s hawk are its primary focus. Giant Garter

More information

Amphibians. Land and Water Dwellers

Amphibians. Land and Water Dwellers Amphibians Land and Water Dwellers Amphibians Most amphibians do not live completely in the water or completely on land and most must return to water to reproduce http://potch74.files.wordpress.com/2007/09/amphibians.jpg

More information

Activity for Biology. Background Information on Lake Erie water snake and round goby:

Activity for Biology. Background Information on Lake Erie water snake and round goby: Activity for Biology Lesson #2 Name Period Date Maritime Shipping on the Great Lakes and the link to the Lake Erie Water Snake Background Information on Lake Erie water snake and round goby: Lake Erie

More information

Weaver Dunes, Minnesota

Weaver Dunes, Minnesota Hatchling Orientation During Dispersal from Nests Experimental analyses of an early life stage comparing orientation and dispersal patterns of hatchlings that emerge from nests close to and far from wetlands

More information

Reptile Identification Guide

Reptile Identification Guide Care & preservation of Surrey s native amphibians and reptiles Reptile Identification Guide This identification guide is intended to act as an aid for SARG surveyors. Adder, Vipera berus A short, stocky

More information

Result Demonstration Report

Result Demonstration Report Result Demonstration Report 2014 Texas Quail Index Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service Archer County Cooperator: Brad Mitchell- Mitchell and Parkey Ranches Justin B Gilliam, County Extension Agent for

More information

Density, growth, and home range of the lizard Uta stansburiana stejnegeri in southern Dona Ana County, New Mexico

Density, growth, and home range of the lizard Uta stansburiana stejnegeri in southern Dona Ana County, New Mexico Great Basin Naturalist Volume 33 Number 2 Article 8 6-30-1973 Density, growth, and home range of the lizard Uta stansburiana stejnegeri in southern Dona Ana County, New Mexico Richard D. Worthington University

More information

Which would a woodlouse prefer? Featured scientist: Nora Straquadine from Michigan State University

Which would a woodlouse prefer? Featured scientist: Nora Straquadine from Michigan State University Which would a woodlouse prefer? Featured scientist: Nora Straquadine from Michigan State University Research Background: Woodlice are small crustaceans that live on land. They look like bugs, but are actually

More information

United States Turtle Mapping Project with a Focus on Western Pond Turtle and Painted Turtle

United States Turtle Mapping Project with a Focus on Western Pond Turtle and Painted Turtle United States Turtle Mapping Project with a Focus on Western Pond Turtle and Painted Turtle Kimberly Barela BioResource Research Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR Deanna H. Olson, Ph.D. U.S. Forest

More information

Population Dynamics: Predator/Prey Teacher Version

Population Dynamics: Predator/Prey Teacher Version Population Dynamics: Predator/Prey Teacher Version In this lab students will simulate the population dynamics in the lives of bunnies and wolves. They will discover how both predator and prey interact

More information

Please initial and date as your child has completely mastered reading each column.

Please initial and date as your child has completely mastered reading each column. go the red don t help away three please look we big fast at see funny take run want its read me this but know here ride from she come in first let get will be how down for as all jump one blue make said

More information

Amphibians of the Chicago Wilderness Region eggs of some common species. 1. wood frog. 2. western chorus frog. 3. northern leopard frog

Amphibians of the Chicago Wilderness Region eggs of some common species. 1. wood frog. 2. western chorus frog. 3. northern leopard frog 1 eggs of some common species 1. wood frog Lithobates sylvaticus Globular clusters of 300 900 eggs, often many clusters massed together. Attached to submerged plants near water surface. 1a 1b 2. western

More information

ECOL /8/2019. Why do birds have colorful plumage? Today s Outline. Evolution of Animal Form & Function. 1. Functions of Colorful Plumage

ECOL /8/2019. Why do birds have colorful plumage? Today s Outline. Evolution of Animal Form & Function. 1. Functions of Colorful Plumage Today s Outline 1. Functions of Colorful Plumage Evolution of Animal Form & Function Dr Alex Badyaev Office hours: T 11 12, by apt BSW 416 Lecture 14 ECOL 3 3 0 Why do birds have colorful plumage? 2. Types

More information

Bird-X Goose Chase / Bird Shield Testing Information For Use On: 1. Apples 2. Cherries 3. Grapes 4. Blueberries 5. Corn 6. Sunflowers 7.

Bird-X Goose Chase / Bird Shield Testing Information For Use On: 1. Apples 2. Cherries 3. Grapes 4. Blueberries 5. Corn 6. Sunflowers 7. Bird-X Goose Chase / Bird Shield Testing Information For Use On: 1. Apples 2. Cherries 3. Grapes 4. Blueberries 5. Corn 6. Sunflowers 7. Water 8. Structures 9. Rice 10. Turf & Ornamentals 1. Apples Field

More information

TEACHER GUIDE: Letter 1: Western Pond Turtle

TEACHER GUIDE: Letter 1: Western Pond Turtle TEACHER GUIDE: Letter 1: Western Pond Turtle CONCEPTS COVERED Plant Community-- Riparian or stream wetland Characteristics Tenajas Representative animal--western pond turtle Characteristics Food Reproduction

More information

The Story of Peter and the Wolf. Once upon a time, there was a young boy named Peter. Peter lived with his grandfather near a big green

The Story of Peter and the Wolf. Once upon a time, there was a young boy named Peter. Peter lived with his grandfather near a big green The Story of Peter and the Wolf By Sergei Prokofiev (Revised to include 1 st grade and 2 nd grade Dolch and 1 st grade and 2 nd grade Fry sight words) Once upon a time, there was a young boy named Peter.

More information

Name. Period. Student Activity: Dichotomous Key. 1a. 1b. 2a. 2b. 3a. 3b. 4a. 4b. 5a. 5b. 6a. 6b. 7a. 7b. 8a.

Name. Period. Student Activity: Dichotomous Key. 1a. 1b. 2a. 2b. 3a. 3b. 4a. 4b. 5a. 5b. 6a. 6b. 7a. 7b. 8a. Name Period Student Activity: Dichotomous Key 1a. 1b. Question Identify/Go to 2a. 2b. 3a. 3b. 4a. 4b. 5a. 5b. 6a. 6b. 7a. 7b. 8a. 8b. Name Period CLASSIFICATION KEY FOR FISHES OF UTAH LAKE Examine the

More information

Draw a line from the names below to the animals they match. Red Fox. Wild Turkey. Wood Duck. White-tailed Deer. Black Bear

Draw a line from the names below to the animals they match. Red Fox. Wild Turkey. Wood Duck. White-tailed Deer. Black Bear Science and Nature Cente Draw a line from the names below to the animals they match. Which animal do you like the best that you see in the nature center? Red Fox Wild Turkey Wood Duck White-tailed Deer

More information

Gu id to the Reptiles and Amphibians of Low r West Central Minnesota

Gu id to the Reptiles and Amphibians of Low r West Central Minnesota This document is made available electronically by the Minnesota Legislative Reference Library as part of an ongoing digital archiving project. http://www.leg.state.mn.us/lrl/lrl.asp (Funding for document

More information

March to mid May: Mid May to late June:

March to mid May: Mid May to late June: As lake dwellers, wildlife in many forms will always be part of our ecological system. We will always have geese, beavers, otters and muskrats as well as squirrels and woodpeckers. Geese and woodpeckers

More information

Title of Project: Distribution of the Collared Lizard, Crotophytus collaris, in the Arkansas River Valley and Ouachita Mountains

Title of Project: Distribution of the Collared Lizard, Crotophytus collaris, in the Arkansas River Valley and Ouachita Mountains Title of Project: Distribution of the Collared Lizard, Crotophytus collaris, in the Arkansas River Valley and Ouachita Mountains Project Summary: This project will seek to monitor the status of Collared

More information