in some regions of the western U.S. (Buryetal. 1991). The impacts of grazing on amphibians 

 and reptiles and their habitats remain poorly studied and understood. Heavy grazing in and 

 around breeding sites associated with water may negatively impact amphibians and reptiles by 1 ) 

 eliminating emergent vegetation necessary for egg and larval survival, 2) lowering water quality, 

 especially causing high siltation levels, 3) trampling of eggs, larvae and adults, and 4) degrading 

 the amphibian and reptile food base. Additionally, modification of seeps and springs for livestock 

 watering, by capturing water flow in tanks, may make former breeding sites unusable by 

 amphibians. 



Inventory of the Miles City District, BLM was undertaken to survey for amphibian and reptile 

 species in a large region of eastern Montana for which there are only rudimentarv data on the 

 status and distribution of most species. Several historical Northern Leopard Frog sites were also 

 visited to determine if this species was still present. Concurrent with site surveys, a variety of 

 data on the physical characteristics of each site was recorded; these data help identify habitat 

 needs of selected species. Management suggestions are presented that pertain to habitat 

 enhancement for selected species. Limitations in current knowledge and future information needs 

 are also addressed. 



The Montana Natural Heritage Program currently (1998) lists five amphibian and five reptile 

 species as Animal Species of Special Concern. Of these, two amphibian and five reptile species 

 have been documented within the borders of the Miles City District, BLM. They are Canadian 

 Toad (Biifo hemiophrys). Northern Leopard Frog {Rana pipiens). Common Snapping Turtle 

 {Chelydra serpentina). Spiny Softshell {Thonyx spmiferiis). Western Hognose Snake {Heterodon 

 nasicus). Milk Snake (Lampropeltis thangulum), and Smooth Green Snake (Liochlorophis 

 [=Opheodns] vemalis). The toad, two turtle species, and Milk Snake are also listed as BLM 

 Special Status Species for Montana and the Dakotas. 



