Atlantic Leopard Frog Battles Habitat Loss and Urbanization
The Atlantic Coast leopard frog, a newly recognized species native to Staten Island and other parts of the East Coast, is on the brink of extinction. This black-spotted amphibian, officially known as *Rana kauffeldi*, was first identified in 2014 but has quickly become a focal point for conservationists due to its declining population and fragile habitat.
A Frog Born in the Wetlands
The Atlantic leopard frog thrives in freshwater marshes, wet meadows, and slow-moving streams. It relies heavily on clear, shallow waters surrounded by dense vegetation for breeding and survival. Despite once being widespread across 11 counties in New York, the species now exists in just six isolated locations across three counties: Richmond (Staten Island), Orange, and Putnam.
This significant contraction in range has made the species critically vulnerable, according to The Gothamist.
José Ramírez-Garofalo, an ecologist and president of the Protectors of Pine Oak Woods, explained how habitat fragmentation increases the frog’s risk of extinction.
“The isolation makes them naturally more vulnerable, as a random event could potentially eliminate one entire population,” he told Staten Island Advance.
A New Discovery with Old Roots
The Atlantic leopard frog remained hidden in plain sight until researchers noticed its distinctive single-burst call, setting it apart from other leopard frog species. The discovery was first reported by Jeremy Feinberg, a Rutgers University researcher, who revealed that this frog is genetically closer to the pickerel frog than to other leopard frogs. Feinberg’s findings were detailed in a study published in PLOS ONE.
This discovery has significant implications for conservation efforts. Without identifying it as a distinct species, scientists could have pursued incorrect conservation strategies, explained Matthew Schlesinger, a zoologist with the New York Natural Heritage Program. Schlesinger and his team are now working to map the frog’s habitat, supported by federal grants aimed at securing its survival.
Urban Threats to Survival
Urbanization poses one of the most immediate threats to the Atlantic leopard frog. Staten Island’s wetlands, vital to the frog’s survival, are shrinking due to overdevelopment. Wetlands across the East Coast also face challenges from pollution, rising sea levels, and saltwater intrusion. These factors endanger not only the frog but also other species sharing the habitat, such as diamondback terrapins and various arthropods, according to SILive.
Public participation also plays a role. The DEC is inviting comments on the proposed regulation, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in safeguarding the frog’s habitat. Meanwhile, researchers are continuing to gather data to understand the species' needs better and to mitigate the risks it faces.
A Call for Action
The Atlantic leopard frog’s plight serves as a stark reminder of how urbanization and climate change affect even the most hidden species. As scientists, conservationists, and policymakers collaborate to protect this elusive amphibian, the hope remains that this rare croaker will thrive once again in its native wetlands.
Click below to take action for this imperiled species!
Matthew Russell is a West Michigan native and with a background in journalism, data analysis, cartography and design thinking. He likes to learn new things and solve old problems whenever possible, and enjoys bicycling, spending time with his daughters, and coffee.