Probably all three alternatives have some element of reality. It seems likely that 1) some 

 patch complexes are isolated from others and have been for long periods of time; 2) some 

 relatively long distance movements may increase gene flow, supplement small populations, and 

 allow for recolonization of extirpated patches; and 3) while bog lemmings use a variety of 

 habitats to a limited (and largely unknown) extent, bog and fen habitats hold the densest 

 populations of lemmings. 



RECOMMENDATIONS 



1) All incidental sightings of amphibians and reptiles from the Study area should be recorded 

 and forwarded to the Natural Heritage Program. The single exception being that for the Western 

 Chorus Frog need not be recorded. Certainly all Tailed Frogs (larvae and adults) found during 

 fisheries surveys should be recorded; this is the most efficient way to get data on this species. 

 Particular attention needs to be given to any Western Toad and Northern Leopard Frog breeding 

 sites found. 



2) Sightings on the study area of the Long-toed Salamander, Plains Spadefoot, Painted Turtle. 

 Short-horned Lizard. Rubber Boa, Racer, Western Hognose Snake, Gopher Snake. Plains Garter 

 Snake, and Western Rattlesnake would represent first-time occurrences and range extensions, 

 thus it is important to document and record such data. Preferably either photos should be taken 

 or, if appropriate, a specimen collected; at the very least, a description should be wTitten at the 

 time of the observation. 



3) No additional northern bog lemming surveys are recommended for the study site, unless 

 northern bog lemmings are found at a locations less than 20 km from the study area. In that case, 

 another survey of Blackleaf swamp would be justified. 



4) With an increasing number of amphibians species declining for various reasons, it seems 

 reasonable to pro-actively manage habitat to support them. While not all ways of preserving 

 these species are currently known, several management actions could certainly negatively impact 

 them. Without adequate breeding areas, amphibians cannot survive, and the types of water used 

 is often species-specific. 



a) Fish stocking in currently fishless lakes and ponds in which amphibians breed should be 

 carefully evaluated. Fish introductions are thought to be a major factor in frog declines in 

 the Sierra Nevada Mountains and probably elsewhere as well (Hayes and Jennings 1986). 



b) When "improving" springs or seeps for livestock, leave a portion of the area suitable for 

 amphibian reproduction. This could include a small fenced off area above where the 

 water is taken up and put into a watering tank. 



c) Springs, seeps, and both permanent and temporary' ponds should be considered when 

 analyzing effects of land management activities such as grazing, logging, and road 

 building. 



5) A critical component of the life cycle in snakes is the wintering den. Many species hibernate 



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