Green frog (Rana clamitans) movement behavior and terrestrial habitat use in fragmented landscapes in central Missouri

With the increasing fragmentation of habitat suitable for native species, it is critical to understand how fragmentation will affect individual movement behavior. I studied adult green frogs in central Missouri using radio-telemetry and powdered fluorescent pigments. Telemetry results indicate that local populations of green frogs probably utilize upland aquatic areas for overwintering and may migrate over 900 m to reach these areas. Experiments on habitat choice and edge response with fluorescent pigments at a local golf course reveal that green frogs exhibit a significant preference for shorter vegetation and often exhibit edge-following behavior. Various observations indicate that frogs will utilize taller vegetation in response to disturbance or a perceived threat. My results suggest that vegetation along the migration route between overwintering areas and breeding ponds could be managed to facilitate movement by adult green frogs in fragmented landscapes. This would also possibly increase colonization in areas with newly constructed ponds. However, further study should consider the possible edge response of species that prey on green frogs.