Title: Impact of Invasive Species on Resident Aquatic Species at Whiskeytown National Recreation Area
Status:
Active
Synopsis: Invasive species and human recreation represent increasing threats to biodiversity on National Parks Service (NPS) lands. Western pond turtles and foothill yellow-legged frogs may be negatively impacted by current recreational activities and invasive species at Whiskeytown National Recreation Area (NRA), California. USGS scientists are determining which native species are most at risk from the spread of invasive species, and are exploring means to reduce these impacts to ensure persistence of native biodiversity at Whiskeytown NRA. Major objectives include measuring the abundances of resident aquatic amphibians and reptiles in the presence of invasive species, determining the key population features and habitat requirements of western pond turtles and foothill yellow-legged frogs, and providing management recommendations to improve habitat conditions. This study will help develop a plan for other NPS units that face threats from spread of invasive animals.
Related Publications:
Bettelheim, M.P., Bury, R., Patterson, L.C., Lubke, G.M., 2006, Trachemys scripta elegans (red-eared slider)- Reproduction in northern California: Herpetological Review, v. 37, no. 4, p. 459-460. [FullText] Catalog No: 1846
Contact: Bury, Richard B. - Research Zoologist Phone: 541-750-1010 Email: buryb@usgs.gov
