VEGAS VALLEY LEOPARD FROG Rana pipiens fisheri (Stejneger) 



Order: SALIENTIA Family: RANIDAE 



Distinguishing characteristics : A medium-sized frog, resembling the common leopard 

 frog, but without a white line on the upper jaw; dorsum unspotted or with numerous 

 small spots; yellow on under parts. 



Present distribution : Unknown . 



Former distribution : Vicinity of Las Vegas, Vegas Valley, Clark County, Nevada, where 

 it was restricted to springs and seepage areas . 



Status : This subspecies is extremely uncommon and perhaps is the only amphibian to 

 have become extinct in historic times in the United States . The attention focused on the 

 subspecies by its listing in the Red Book has produced no evidence of its survival. 



Estimated numbers : No information available; probably none . 



Breeding rate in the wild : Unknown . 



Reasons for decline : Capping of springs and other measures involving water control 

 have largely eliminated the habitat of this species . Introduced species in surviving 

 habitat also contribute to elimination, since the introduced bullfrog feeds on smaller 

 frogs, and the introduced trout eat the larvae. The last known specimens to be collected 

 were taken in 1942. 



Protective measures already taken : The State of Nevada prohibits the capture, removal, 

 or destruction of the subspecies at any time by any means, except under special permit. 



Measures proposed : A careful search for any remaining populations should be made. 

 If they are present, an area should be set aside for their protection. 



Number in captivity : None . 



Breeding potential in captivity : Probably moderately good. 



References : 



Stebbins , R. C. 1951. Amphibians of western North America, Univ. of Calif . 



Press, Berkeley and Los Angeles. 

 Wright, A. H. and A. A. 1949. Handbook of frogs and toads. Comstock 



Publishing Company, Inc., Ithaca, N.Y. 



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