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**I. Introduction**

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) issued guidance on
conducting site assessments and surveys for the California red-legged
frog (*Rana aurora draytonii*) (CRF) on February 18, 1997 (1997
Guidance). Since then, the Service has reviewed numerous CRF site
assessments and surveys results, accompanied wildlife biologists in the
field during the preparation and performance of site assessments and CRF
surveys, and consulted with species experts on the effectiveness of the
1997 Guidance. Based on our review of the information, the Service has
determined that the survey portion of the 1997 Guidance is less likely
to accurately detect CRF than previously thought, especially in certain
portions of the species range and particularly where CRF exist in low
numbers. In response to the need for new guidance, the Service has
prepared this *Revised Guidance on Site Assessment and Field Surveys for
the California Red-legged Frog* (Guidance).

Similar to the 1997 Guidance, two procedures are recommended in the new
Guidance to accurately assess the likelihood of CRF presence in the
vicinity of a project site: (1) an assessment of CRF locality records
and potential CRF habitat in and around the project area and, (2)
focused field surveys of breeding pools and other associated habitat to
determine whether CRF are likely to be present.

Because CRF are known to use aquatic, riparian, and upland habitat, they
may be present in any of these habitat types, depending on the time of
year, on any given property. For sites with no suitable aquatic breeding
habitat, but where suitable upland dispersal habitat exists, it is
difficult to support a negative finding with the results of any survey
guidance. Therefore, this Guidance focuses on site assessments and
surveys conducted in and around aquatic and riparian habitat.

This Guidance was developed by the Service's Sacramento Fish and
Wildlife Office in coordination with the Ventura Fish and Wildlife
Office. Input by field biologists and scientists experienced in
surveying for the CRF was also used in the development of this Guidance.

***If the following Guidance is followed in its entirety, the results of
the site assessments and surveys will be considered valid by the Service
for two (2) years, unless determined otherwise on a case-by-case basis
by the appropriate Service Fish and Wildlife Office. After two (2)
years, new surveys conducted under the most current Service Guidance may
be required, if deemed necessary by the appropriate Service Fish and
Wildlife Office.***

Modifications of this Guidance for specific projects or circumstances
may be approved by the appropriate Fish and Wildlife Office; however, we
strongly recommend that all modifications be reviewed and approved by
the Service prior to implementation.

**II. Permit Requirements**

Unless otherwise authorized, individuals participating in site
assessments and surveys for CRF may **NOT** take the California
red-legged frog during the course of site assessments or survey
activities. Take may only be authorized via section 7 or section 10 of
the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. Typically, take
associated with survey activities is authorized via issuance of section
10(a)(1)(A) permits. For reference, an application for a section
10(a)(1)(A) permit is available through the appropriate Fish and
Wildlife Office or online at:

<http://forms.fws.gov/3-200-55.pdf>.

***The site assessment and survey methods recommended in this Guidance
do NOT require the surveyor to have a permit. As stated below, the
surveyor must be otherwise qualified to conduct the surveys.***

It is the responsibility of the surveyor to ensure all other applicable
permits are obtained and valid (*e.g.,* state scientific collection
permits), and that permission from private landowners or land managers
is obtained prior to accessing a site and beginning site assessments and
surveys.

**III. Site Assessments**

***To prevent any unnecessary loss of time or use of resources, it is
essential that completed site assessments be submitted to the
appropriate Service Fish and Wildlife Office for review in order to
obtain further guidance from the Service before conducting surveys.***

[Surveyors are encouraged to implement the decontamination guidelines
provided in Appendix B before conducting a site assessment to prevent
the spread of parasites and diseases to CRF and other
amphibians.]{.underline}

Careful evaluation of the following information about CRF and their
habitats in the vicinity of a project or other land use activities is
important because this information indicates the likelihood of the
presence of CRF. This information will help determine whether it is
necessary to conduct field surveys.

To conduct a site assessment for CRF, complete the data sheet in
Appendix D and return it with any necessary supporting documentation to
the appropriate Service Fish and Wildlife Office for review prior to
initiating surveys. The following information is critical to completing
a proper site assessment:

29204. **Is the site within the current or historic range of the CRF?**

Since knowledge of the distribution of the CRF is likely to change as
new locality information becomes available, biologists are expected to
contact the appropriate Fish and Wildlife Office (see section IV below)
to determine if a project site is within the range of this species.

1.  **Are there known records of CRF at the site or within a
    1.6-kilometer\* (1-mile) radius of the site?**

The biologist should consult the California Natural Diversity Data Base
(CNDDB) maintained by the California Department of Fish and Game's
(CDFG) Natural Heritage Division as a starting point to determine if
there are reported localities of CRF within a 1.6-kilometer (1-mile)
radius of the site. Information on the CNDDB is attached to the end of
this document. Data entry into the CNDDB is not always current nor do
all surveyors submit reports to the CNDDB, thus it is essential that
other information sources on local occurrences of CRF be consulted.
These sources may include, but are not limited to, biological
consultants, local residents, amateur herpetologists, resource managers
and biologists from municipal, State, and Federal agencies,
environmental groups, and herpetologists at museums and universities.
The biologist should report to the Service all known CRF records at the
project site and within a 1.6-kilometer (1-mile) radius of the project
boundaries. One-point-six (1.6) kilometers (1 mile) was selected as a
proximity radius to a project site based on telemetry data collected by
Bulger *et al.* (2003), rounded to the nearest whole mile. This distance
may be subject to change when new data becomes available, or based on
site-specific conditions, so it is advised that surveyors check with the
appropriate Service Fish and Wildlife Office to ensure they are using
the most up-to-date information.

> **\* IMPORTANT**: One-point-six (1.6) kilometers (1 mile) radius is a
> general guideline. The appropriate Service Fish and Wildlife Office
> will advise surveyors of the most appropriate distance for each
> specific project location on a case-by-case basis.

2.  **What are the habitats within the project site and within 1.6
    kilometers\* (1 mile) of the project boundary?**

In order to properly characterize the habitat within 1.6 kilometers (1
mile) of the project site, individuals conducting site assessments must
visit the project site and as much of the surrounding habitat within 1.6
kilometers (1 mile) of the project site as possible. Aerial photographs,
maps, and other resources should be consulted as well to ensure all
possible accessible habitats are considered. Based on this
reconnaissance assessment, the surveyor shall describe the upland and
aquatic habitats within the project site and within 1.6 kilometers
(1 mile) of the project boundary. The aquatic habitats should be mapped
and characterized (*e.g.,* ponds vs. creeks, pool vs. riffle, ephemeral
vs. permanent (if ephemeral, give date it goes dry), vegetation (type,
emergent, overhanging), water depth at the time of the site assessment,
bank full depth, stream gradient (percent slope), substrate, and
description of bank). The presence of bullfrogs (*Rana catesbeiana*) and
other aquatic predators such a centrarchid fishes (bass, perch, sunfish)
should be documented even though their presence does not negate the
presence of CRF. Upland habitats should be characterized by including a
description of upland vegetation communities, land uses, and any
potential barriers to CRF movement. The information provided in Appendix
A serves as a guide to the features that will indicate possible CRF
habitat.

3.  **Report the results of the site assessment**

A site assessment report shall be provided to the appropriate Fish and
Wildlife Office for review. Reports should include, but are not limited
to, the following information:

1)  Copies of the data sheet provided at Appendix D;

2)  Copies of field notes and all other supporting documentation
    including:

    A.  A list of all known CRF localities within 1.6 kilometers\* (1
        mile) of the project site boundaries;

    B.  Photographs of the project site (photopoints shall be indicated
        on an accompanying map);

    C.  A map of the site showing all of the habitat types and other
        important features as well as the location of any species
        detected during the site assessment within 1.6 kilometers (1
        mile) of the project site boundaries. Maps shall be either
        copies of those portions of the U.S. Geological Service
        7.5-minute quadrangle map(s) *or* geographic information system
        (GIS) data;

    D.  A description of the project and/or land use that is being
        proposed at the site.

Based on the information provided in the site assessment report, the
Service will provide guidance on how CRF issues should be addressed,
including whether field surveys are appropriate, where the field surveys
should be conducted, and whether incidental take authorization should be
obtained through section 7 consultation or a section 10 permit pursuant
to the Endangered Species Act.

**IV. Field Surveys**

[Surveyors are encouraged to implement the decontamination guidelines
provided in Appendix B before conducting surveys to prevent the spread
of parasites and diseases to CRF and other amphibians.]{.underline}

***To avoid and minimize the potential of harassment or harm to CRF, no
additional surveys will be conducted in an area once occupancy has been
established, unless the surveying effort is part of a Service-approved
project to determine actual numbers of frogs at a site.***

[The Service should be notified in writing (*e.g.,* email) by the
surveyor within three (3) working days once a CRF is
detected.]{.underline} The Service will provide guidance to the surveyor
regarding the need to collect additional information such as population
size, age class, habitat use, *etc*.

**A. Qualifications of Surveyors**

Surveyors must be familiar with the distinguishing physical
characteristics of all life stages of the CRF, other anurans of
California, and with introduced, exotic species such as the bullfrog and
the African clawed frog (*Xenopus Laevis*) prior to conducting surveys
according to this Guidance.

***Surveyors must submit their qualifications to the Service along with
their survey results.***

A field guide should be consulted (*e.g.*, Wright and Wright 1949;
Stebbins 2003) to confirm the identification of amphibians encountered
during surveys. Surveyors also should be familiar with the vocalizations
of the CRF and other amphibians found in California. Recordings of these
vocalizations are available through various sources (*e.g.,* Davidson
1995). Surveyors that do not have experience with the species are
required to obtain training on locating and identifying CRF adult,
larval and egg stages before survey results are accepted. Training may
include attendance at various workshops that have an emphasis on the
biology of the California red-legged frog, accompanied by an appropriate
level of field identification training; field work with individuals who
possess valid 10(a)(1)(A) permits for the CRF; and experience working
with ranids and similar taxa.

In some localities more intensive surveys (*e.g*., dip-netting larvae
and adults) may be desirable to document the presence of CRF. In order
to conduct such focused surveys a valid section 10(a)(1)(A) permit is
required (refer to introduction section for information on how to apply
for a section 10(a)(1)(A) permit). Applicants will be considered
qualified for a section 10(a)(1)(A) permit if they meet the Service's
most current qualification requirements. At a minimum, prospective
applicants must:

1)  Possess a Baccalaureate degree in biology, ecology, a resource
    management-related field, or have equivalent relevant experience;

2)  Have completed course work in herpetology and
    study-design/survey-methodology or have equivalent relevant
    experience;

3)  Have verifiable experience in the design and implementation of
    amphibian surveys or research or have equivalent relevant
    experience;

4)  Have verifiable experience handling and identifying a minimum of 10
    CRF, or similar ranid species, comprised of a minimum of 5 adults
    and a combination of larva and juveniles;

5)  Obtain a minimum of 40 hours of field experience through assisting
    in surveys for the CRF during which positive identification is made;

6)  Have familiarity with suitable habitats for the species and be able
    to identify the major vegetative components of communities in which
    California red-legged frog surveys or research may be conducted.

7)  Have familiarity with and be able to identify native and non-native
    amphibians that may co-occur with the listed species.

**B. Survey Periods**

Surveys may begin anytime during January and should be completed by the
end of September. Multiple survey visits conducted throughout the
survey-year (January through September) increases the likelihood of
detecting the various life stages of the CRF. For example, adult frogs
are most likely to be detected at night between January 1 and June 30,
somewhere in the vicinity of a breeding location, whereas, sub-adults
are most easily detected during the day from July 1 through September
30.

Due to the geographic and yearly variation in egg laying dates, it is
not possible to specify a range of dates that is appropriate for egg
surveys throughout the range of the CRF. The following table summarizes
the best approximated times to survey for CRF egg masses.

  -------------------------------------------- --------------------------
  **Geographic Area**                          **Best Survey Period\***

  Northern California along the coast and      January 1 and February 28
  interior to the Coast Range (north of Santa  
  Cruz County)                                 

  Southern California along the coast and      February 25 and April 30
  interior through the Coast Range (south of,  
  and including Santa Cruz County)             

  Sierra Nevada Mountains and other            Should not begin before
  high-elevation locations                     April 15
  -------------------------------------------- --------------------------

Site specific conditions may warrant modifications to the timing of
survey periods, modifications must be made with the Service's approval
prior to conducting the surveys.

**Survey Methodology**

This Guidance recommends a total of **[up to]{.underline}** eight (8)
surveys to determine the presence of CRF at or near a project site. Two
(2) day surveys and four (4) night surveys are recommended during the
breeding season; one (1) day and one (1) night survey is recommended
during the non-breeding season. Each survey must take place at least
seven (7) days apart. At least one survey must be conducted prior to
August 15^th^. The survey period must be over a minimum period of 6
weeks (*i.e.,* the time between the first and last survey must be at
least 6 weeks). Throughout the species' range, the non-breeding season
is defined as between July 1 and September 30.

***If CRF are identified at any time during the course of surveys, no
additional surveys will be conducted in the area, unless the surveying
effort is part of a Service-approved project to determine actual numbers
of frogs at a site.***

The following methodology shall be followed unless otherwise specified,
or approved by the appropriate Service Fish and Wildlife Office:

1)  Upon arrival at the survey site, surveyors should listen for a few
    minutes for frogs calling, prior to disturbing the survey site by
    walking or looking for eye shine using bright lights. If CRF calls
    are identified, the surveyor should note this information on the
    survey data sheet and note the approximate location of the call.
    Once the survey begins, the surveyor should pay special attention to
    the area where the call originated in an attempt to visually
    identify the frog.

2)  The most common method of surveying for CRF is the visual-encounter
    survey. This survey is conducted either during daylight hours or at
    night by walking entirely around the pond or marsh or along the
    entire length of a creek or stream while repeatedly scanning for
    frogs. This procedure allows one to scan each section of shore from
    at least two different angles. Surveyors should begin by first
    working along the entire shoreline, then by entering the water (if
    necessary and no egg masses would be crushed or disturbed), and
    visually scanning all shoreline areas and all aquatic habitats
    identified in the site assessment. Generally, surveyors shall focus
    on all open water to at least 2 meters (6.5 feet) up the bank. When
    wading, surveyors must take maximum care to avoid disturbing
    sediments, vegetation, or larvae. When walking on the bank,
    surveyors shall take care to not crush rootballs, overhanging banks,
    and stream-side vegetation that might provide shelter for frogs.
    Surveys must cover the entire area, otherwise the remaining survey
    area must be surveyed the next day/night that weather conditions
    allow (both visits would constitute one day/night survey).

3)  Day surveys may be conducted on the same day as a night survey.

    The main purpose of day surveys during the breeding season is to
    look for larvae, metamorphs, and egg masses; the main purpose of day
    surveys during the non-breeding season is to look for metamorphosing
    sub-adults, and non-breeding adults. Daytime surveys shall be
    conducted between one hour after sunrise and one hour before sunset.

4)  Night surveys

    The main purpose of night surveys is to identify and locate adult
    and metamorphosed frogs. Conditions and requirements for conducting
    night surveys are as follows:

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A.  Night surveys must commence no earlier than one (1) hour after
    sunset.

B.  Due to diminished visibility, surveys should not be conducted during
    heavy rains, fog, or other conditions that impair the surveyor's
    ability to accurately locate and identify frogs.

C.  Nighttime surveys shall be conducted with a Service-approved light
    such as a Wheat Lamp, Nite Light, or sealed-beam light that produces
    less than 100,000 candle watt. Lights that the Service does not
    accept for surveys are lights that are either too dim or too bright.
    For example, Mag-Light-type lights and other types of flashlights
    that rely on 2 or 4 AA's/AAA's, 2 C's or 2 D batteries. Lights with
    100,000 candle watt or greater are too bright and also would not
    meet Service requirements.

D.  The Service approved light must be held at the surveyor's eye level
    so that the frog's eye shine is visible to the surveyor.

E.  The use of binoculars is a must in order to effectively see the eye
    shine of the frogs. Surveys conducted without the use of binoculars
    may call in to question the validity of the survey.

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5)  Weather conditions.

    Weather and visibility conditions must be consistent throughout the
    duration of the survey; if weather conditions become unsuitable, the
    survey must be completed at another time when conditions are better
    suited to positively locating and identifying frogs. Suitable
    conditions are as follows:

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A.  Air temperature at the survey site must be at least 10 degrees
    Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit). Frogs are less likely to be active
    when temperatures are below 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees
    Fahrenheit).

B.  Wind speed must not exceed 8 kilometers/hour (5 miles/hour) at the
    survey site. High wind speeds affect temperatures and the surveyor's
    ability to hear frogs calling.

C.  Surveys must be conducted under clear to partly cloudy skies (high
    clouds are okay) but not under dense fog or during heavy rain, as
    stated above. Surveys may be conducted during light rains.

    Surveyors should carefully consider weather conditions prior to
    initiating a survey. Ask yourself, "Can I collect accurate, reliable
    data under the existing weather conditions" prior to proceeding with
    the survey. Weather conditions will be taken into account when the
    data is reviewed by the appropriate Service Fish and Wildlife
    Service Office.

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6)  Decontamination of equipment

    In an effort to minimize the spread of terrestrial and aquatic
    pathogens, all aquatic survey equipment including chest waders, wet
    suits, float tubes, kayaks, shall be decontaminated before entering
    potential CRF habitat using the guidelines in Appendix B. Careful
    attention shall be taken to remove all dirt from boots, chest
    waders, wetsuits, float tubes, kayaks, and other equipment before
    placing equipment into the water.

7)  Unidentified larvae, sub-adults, and adults

    If the larval life stage is the only life stage detected and the
    larvae are not identified to species (or similarly, if sub-adult or
    adult frogs are observed but not identified to species), the
    surveyor must either return to the habitat to identify the frog in
    another life stage or obtain the appropriate permit (*e.g*., section
    10(a)(1)(A) permit) authorization allowing the surveyor to handle
    CRF and larvae. In order for the Service to consider a survey to be
    complete, all frogs encountered must be accurately identified.

8)  Reporting results of the surveys

> A species survey report shall be provided to the appropriate Fish and
> Wildlife Office for review. Reports should include, but are not
> limited to, the following information:

1.  Copies of the data sheets provided at Appendix E;

2.  Copies of field notes and all other supporting documentation
    including:

    A.  Photographs of all CRF observed during the survey and of the
        habitat where each individual was located, if possible without
        harming or harassing the individual;

    B.  A map of the site showing the location of any species detected
        during the survey. Maps shall be either copies of those portions
        of the U.S. Geological Service 7.5-minute quadrangle map(s) *or*
        geographic information system (GIS) data;

> Based on the information provided in the site assessment report and
> the survey results, the Service will provide guidance on how CRF
> issues should be addressed through the section 7 or section 10
> processes.
>
> All information on CRF distribution resulting from field surveys shall
> be sent to the California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB). CNDDB
> forms shall be completed, as appropriate, for each listed species
> identified during the survey(s) and submitted to the California
> Department of Fish and Game, Wildlife Habitat Data Analysis Branch,
> 1807 13^th^ Street, Suite 202, Sacramento, California 95814, with
> copies submitted to the appropriate Service Fish and Wildlife Office.
> Each form sent to the CDFG shall have an accompanying 1:24,000 scale
> USGS map (or an exact scale photocopy of the appropriate portion(s) of
> the map) -or- Global Information System (GIS) data coverage of the
> site. Copies of the form can be obtained from the CDFG at the above
> address (telephone: 916-324-3812) or online at:
> <http://www.dfg.ca.gov/whdab/html/animals.html>. Additional
> information about the CNDDB is available in Appendix C.
>
> The Service may not accept the results of field surveys conducted
> under this Guidance for any of the following reasons:

A.  if the appropriate Service Fish and Wildlife Office was not
    contacted to review the results of the site assessment prior to
    field surveys being conducted;

B.  if field surveys were conducted in a manner inconsistent with this
    Guidance or with survey methods not previously approved by the
    Service;

C.  if field surveys were incomplete;

D.  if surveyors were not adequately qualified to conduct the surveys;

E.  if the reporting requirements, including submission of CNDDB forms,
    were not fulfilled.

**IV. Service Contacts**

There are three Service Fish and Wildlife Offices within the range of
the CRF (see Map 1). The appropriate office to contact regarding site
assessments or survey authorization depends on the location where the
surveys are to be conducted.

For project sites and land use activities in Santa Cruz, Monterey, San
Benito, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura Counties, portions
of Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties outside of the Los Angeles
Basin, and portions of Kern, Inyo and Mono Counties east of the Sierra
Crest and south of Conway Summit, contact:

Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office,

2493 Portola Road, Suite B

Ventura, California, 93003

(805/644-1766).

For project sites and land use activities in all other areas of the
State south of the Transverse Ranges, contact:

Carlsbad Fish and Wildlife Office

Attn: Recovery Permit Coordinator

6010 Hidden Valley Road

Carlsbad, California, 92009

(760/431-9440).

For project sites and land use activities in all other areas of the
State, contact:

Sacramento Fish and Wildlife Office

2800 Cottage Way, Suite W-2605

Sacramento, California 95825

(916/414-6600).

(916/414-6713, fax)

For information on section 10(a)(1)(A) recovery permits, contact:

Regional Office,

Eastside Federal Complex

911 N.E., 11th Avenue

Portland, Oregon 97232-4181

(503/231-6241)

> .![](media/image3.png){width="5.555555555555555in"
> height="7.136111111111111in"}

Map 1. Map of California showing jurisdictional boundaries of Service
Fish and Wildlife Offices.

**References**

Davidson, C. 1995. Frog and toad calls of the Pacific Coast: Vanishing
Voices. Library of Natural Sounds, Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology,
Ithaca, New York. 27 pp. +1 cassette.

Stebbins, R.C. 2003. A field guide to western reptiles and amphibians.
Third edition. Houghton Mifflin Company, New York, New York. 533 pp.

Wright, A.H. and A.A. Wright. 1949. Handbook of frogs and toads of the
United States and Canada. Third Edition. Comstock Publishing Company,
Ithaca, New York. xii+640 pp.

**Appendix A.**

**California red-legged frog identification and ecology.**

1\. [Identification]{.underline}

The following information may aid surveyors in the identification of
California red-legged frogs and similar species. However, all surveyors
are expected to consult field guides (Wright and Wright 1949; Davidson
1995; Stebbins 2003) for further information.

*General Description*

The California red-legged frog (*Rana aurora draytonii*), is a
relatively large aquatic frog ranging from 4 to 13 centimeters (1.5 to 5
inches) from the tip of the snout to the vent. From above, the
California red-legged frog can appear brown, gray, olive, red or orange,
often with a pattern of dark flecks or spots. The skin usually does not
look rough or warty. The back of the California red-legged frog is
bordered on either side by an often prominent dorsolateral fold of skin
running from the eye to the hip. The hindlegs are well-developed with
large webbed feet. A cream, white, or orange stripe usually extends
along the upper lip from beneath the eye to the rear of the jaw. The
undersides of adult California red-legged frogs are white, usually with
patches of bright red or orange on the abdomen and hindlegs. The groin
area can show a bold black mottling with a white or yellow background.

*Adults*

Positive diagnostic marks should be used to accurately distinguish
California red-legged frogs from other species of frogs that may be
observed. A positive diagnostic mark is an attribute of the animal that
will not be found on any other animal likely to be encountered at the
same locality. The following features are positive diagnostic marks
that, if observed, will distinguish California red-legged frogs from
foothill yellow-legged frogs (*Rana boylii)* and bullfrogs *(Rana
catesbeiana)*:

> a\. Prominent dorsolateral folds (thick upraised fold of skin running
> from eye to hip) on any frog greater than 5 centimeters (2 inches)
> long from snout to vent. Young yellow-legged frogs can show reddish
> folds; these usually fade as the frogs mature.
>
> b\. Bright red dorsum.
>
> c\. Well defined stripe as described above running along upper lip.

Since California red-legged frogs are often confused with bullfrogs,
surveyors should note those features that might be found on bullfrogs
that will rarely be observed on California red-legged frogs. These
features are:

> a\. Absence of the dorsolateral fold.
>
> b\. Bright yellow on throat.
>
> c\. Uniform bright green snout.
>
> d\. Tympanum (ear disc) distinct and much larger than eye.

Please note that some frogs may lack all of the above characteristics
given for both California red-legged frogs and bullfrogs. Surveyors
should regard such frogs as unidentified, unless it is clearly
identified as another species.

California red-legged frogs are cryptic because their coloration tends
to help them blend in with their surroundings, and they can remain
immobile for great lengths of time. When an individual California
red-legged frog is disturbed, it may jump into the water with a distinct
Aplop.@ The California red-legged frog may do this either when the
surveyor is still distant or when a surveyor is very near. Bullfrogs
exhibit similar behavior but will often emit a Asquawk@ as they dive
into the water. Because a California red-legged frog is unlikely to make
such a sound, a Asquawk@ from a fleeing frog will be considered
sufficient to positively identify the frog as a bullfrog.

*Larvae*

Tadpoles may be trapped and handled only by those with a valid 10(a)1(A)
permit. California red-legged frog larvae range from 14 to 80
millimeters (0.5 to 3.25 inches) in length. They are greenish to
generally brownish color with darker marbling and lack distinct black or
white spotting or speckling. Large California red-legged frog larvae
often have a wash of red coloration on their undersides and a very small
single row of evenly spaced whitish or gold flecks along the side where
the dorsolateral fold will develop. Other features to look for to
identify California red-legged frog larvae include: eyes set well in
from the outline of the head (contrasts with treefrogs (*Hyla* spp.)),
oral papillae on both the sides of the mouth and the bottom of the mouth
(contrasts with *Bufo* spp.), well developed oral papillae on the sides
of the mouth (contrasts with other subspecies of red-legged frogs (*Rana
aurora* spp.) and spadefoot toads (*Scaphiopus* spp.)), generally
mottled body and tail with few or no distinct black spots on tail fins
(contrasts with bullfrogs), and two to three tooth rows on the top and
bottom (contrasts with foothill yellow-legged frogs).

*Eggs*

California red-legged frogs breed during the winter and early spring
from as early as late November through April and May. Adults engage in
courtship behaviors that result in the female depositing from 2,000 to
6,000 eggs, each measuring between 2 and 3 millimeter (0.1 inches).
California red-legged frog eggs are typically laid in a mass attached to
emergent vegetation near the surface of the water, where they can be
easily dislodged. However, egg masses have been detected lying on the
bottom of ponds. The egg mass is well defined and about the size of a
softball. Eggs hatch within 6 to 14 days after deposition at which time
the newly hatched larvae are delicate and easily injured or killed.
California red-legged frog larvae transform into juvenile frogs in 3.5
to 7 months.

During the time that red-legged frog egg surveys are conducted, other
amphibian eggs may be found including those of Pacific treefrogs,
spadefoot toads, California tiger salamanders, and newts. Bullfrogs and
foothill yellow-legged frogs lay their eggs later in the season. Field
guides should be consulted for additional information on egg
identification.

2\. [Habitat]{.underline}

California red-legged frogs occur in different habitats depending on
their life stage, the season, and weather conditions. Rangewide, and
even within local populations, there is much variation in how frogs use
their environment; in some cases, they may complete their entire life
cycle in a particular habitat (*i.e.,* a pond is suitable for all life
stages), and in other cases, they may seek multiple habitat types (U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service 2002).

*Breeding habitat*

All life history stages are most likely to be encountered in and around
breeding sites, which are known to include coastal lagoons, marshes,
springs, permanent and semi-permanent natural ponds, ponded and
backwater portions of streams, as well as artificial impoundments such
as stock ponds, irrigation ponds, and siltation ponds. California
red-legged frog eggs are usually found in ponds or in backwater pools in
creeks attached to emergent vegetation such as *Typha* and *Scirpus*.
However, they have been found in areas completely denuded of vegetation.
Creeks and ponds where California red-legged frogs are found most often
have dense growths of woody riparian vegetation, especially willows
(*Salix* spp.) (Hayes and Jennings 1988). The absence of *Typha*,
*Scirpus,* and *Salix* at an aquatic site does not rule out the
possibility that the site provides habitat for California red-legged
frogs, for example stock ponds often are lacking emergent vegetation yet
they provide suitable breeding habitat. California red-legged frog
larvae remain in these habitats until metamorphosis in the summer months
(Storer 1925; Wright and Wright 1949). Young California red-legged frogs
can occur in slow moving, shallow riffle zones in creeks or along the
margins of ponds.

*Summer habitat*

California red-legged frogs often disperse from their breeding habitat
to forage and seek summer habitat if water is not available. In the
summer, California red-legged frogs are often found close to a pond or a
deep pool in a creek where emergent vegetation, undercut banks, or
semi-submerged rootballs afford shelter from predators. California
red-legged frogs may also take shelter in small mammal burrows and other
refugia on the banks up to 100 meters from the water any time of the
year and can be encountered in smaller, even ephemeral bodies of water
in a variety of upland settings (Jennings and Hayes 1994; U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service 2002).

*Upland habitat*

California red-legged frogs are frequently encountered in open
grasslands occupying seeps and springs. Such bodies may not be suitable
for breeding but may function as foraging habitat or refugia for
dispersing frogs. During periods of wet weather, starting with the first
rains of fall, some individuals make overland excursions through upland
habitats (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 2002).

3\. [Movement]{.underline}

California red-legged frogs may move up to 3 kilometers (1.88 miles) up
or down drainages and are known to wander throughout riparian woodlands
up to several dozen meters from the water (Rathbun *et al.* 1993).
Dispersing frogs have been recorded to cover distances from 0.40
kilometer (0.25 mile) to more than 3.2 kilometers (2 miles) without
apparent regard to topography, vegetation type, or riparian corridors
(Bulger 1998). California red-legged frogs have been observed to make
long-distance movements that are straight-line, point to point
migrations rather than using corridors for moving in between habitats.
Dispersal distances are considered to be dependent on habitat
availability and environmental conditions. On rainy nights California
red-legged frogs may roam away from aquatic sites as much as 1.6
kilometers (1 mile). California red-legged frogs will often move away
from the water after the first winter rains, causing sites where
California red-legged frogs were easily observed in the summer months to
appear devoid of this species. Additionally, California red-legged frogs
will sometimes disperse in response to receding water which often occurs
during the driest time of the year.

**References for Appendix A**

Bulger, J. 1998. Wet season dispersal and habitat use by juvenile
California red-legged frogs (*Rana aurora draytonii*) in forest and
rangeland habitats of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Research proposal.

Davidson, C. 1005. Frog and toad calls of the Pacific Coast: Vanishing
Voices. Library of Natural Sounds, Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology,
Ithaca, New York. 27 pp. +1 cassette.

Hayes, M.P. and M.R. Jennings. 1988. Habitat correlates of distribution
of the California red-legged frog. (*Rana aurora draytonii*) and the
foothill yellow-legged frog (*Rana boylii*):Implications for management.
Pages 144-158 [In]{.underline}: R.C. Szaro, K.E. Severson, and D.R.
Patton (technical coordinators), Proceedings of the symposium on the
management of amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals in North America.
United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service , General
Technical Report (RM-166):1-458.

Jennings, M.R. and M.P. Hayes. 1994. Amphibian and reptile species of
special concern in California. Final report to the California Department
of Fish and Game, Inland Fisheries Division, Rancho Cordova, California,
under contract (8023). iii+255 pp.

Rathbun, G.B., M.R. Jennings, T.G. Murphy, and N.R. Siepel. 1993. Status
and ecology of sensitive aquatic vertebrates in lower San Simeon and
Pico Creeks, San Luis Obispo County, California. U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service, National Ecology Research Center, San Simeon, California.
Prepared for the California Department of Parks and Recreation. 103 pp.

Stebbins, R.C. 2003. A field guide to western reptiles and amphibians.
Third edition. Houghton Mifflin Company, New York, New York. 533 pp.

Storer, T.1925. A synopsis of the Amphibia of California. University of
California Publications in Zoology 27:1-342.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2002. Recovery plan for the California
red-legged frog (*Rana aurora draytonii*). Portland, Oregon. 173 pp.

Wright, A.H. and A.A. Wright. 1949. Handbook of frogs and toads of the
United States and Canada. Third Edition. Comstock Publishing Company,
Ithaca, New York. xii+640 pp.

**Appendix B.**

**Recommended Equipment Decontamination Procedures**

In an effort to minimize the spread of pathogens that may be transferred
as result of activities, surveyors should follow the guidance outlined
below for disinfecting equipment and clothing after entering a pond and
before entering a new pond, unless the wetlands are hydrologically
connected to one another:

i\. All organic matter should be removed from nets, traps, boots,
vehicle tires and all other surfaces that have come into contact with
water or potentially contaminated sediments. Cleaned items should be
rinsed with clean water before leaving each study site.

ii\. Boots, nets, traps, hands, *etc*. should be scrubbed with either a
75% ethanol solution, a bleach solution (0.5 to 1.0 cup per 1.0 gallon
of water), Quat-128™ (1:60), or a 6% sodium hypochlorite 3 solution.
Equipment should be rinsed clean with water between study sites.
Cleaning equipment in the immediate vicinity of a pond or wetland should
be avoided (*e.g.,* clean in an area at least 100 feet from aquatic
features). Care should be taken so that all traces of the disinfectant
are removed before entering the next aquatic habitat.

iii\. Used cleaning materials (liquids, *etc.*) should be disposed of
safely, and if necessary, taken back to the lab for proper disposal.
Used disposable gloves should be retained for safe disposal in sealed
bags.

iv\. Additionally, the surveyors shall implement the following when
working at sites with known or suspected disease problems: disposable
gloves should be worn and changed between handling each animal. Gloves
should be wetted with water from the site or distilled water prior to
handling any amphibians. Gloves should be removed by turning inside out
to minimize cross-contamination.

**Appendix C.**

**General instructions for filling out CNDDB field survey forms**

The Natural Diversity Data Base (NDDB) is the largest, most
comprehensive database of its type in the world. It presently contains
more than 33,000 site specific records on California=s rarest plants,
animals, and natural communities. The majority of the data collection
effort for this has been provided by an exceptional assemblage of
biologists throughout the state and the west. The backbone of this
effort is the field survey form. We are enclosing copies of Natural
Diversity Data Base (NDDB) field survey forms for species and natural
communities. We would greatly appreciate you recording your field
observations of rare, threatened, endangered, or sensitive species and
natural communities

(elements) and sending them to us on these forms.

We are interested in receiving forms on elements of concern to us; refer
to our free publications: *Special Plants Lis*t, *Special Animals List,*
and *Natural Communities List* for lists of which elements these
include. Reports on multiple visits to sites that already exist in the
NDDB are as important as new site information as it helps us track
trends in population/stand size and condition. Naturally, we also want
information on new sites. We have enclosed an example of a field survey
form that includes the information we like to see. It is especially
important to include a xeroxed portion of a USGS topographic quad with
the population/stand outlined or marked (see back of enclosed example).

Without the map, your information will be mapped less accurately, as
written descriptions of locations are frequently hard to interpret. Do
not worry about filling in every box on the form; only fill out what
seems most relevant to your site visit. Remember that your name and
telephone number are very important in case we have any questions about
the form.

If you are concerned about the sensitivity of the site, remember that
the NDDB can label your element occurrence ASensitive@ in the computer,
thus restricting access to that information. The NDDB is only as good as
the information in it, and we depend on people like you as the source of
that information. Thank you for your help in improving the NDDB.

Copies of the NDDB form can be obtained from the CDFG at the above
address

(telephone: 916-324-3812) *or* online at:
<http://www.dfg.ca.gov/whdab/html/animals.html>.

**Appendix D.**

**[California Red-legged Frog Habitat Site Assessment Data
Sheet]{.underline}**

This data sheet is to assist in the data collection of California
red-legged frog habitat in the vicinity of projects or other land use
activities, following the August 2005, *Revised Guidance on Site
Assessment and Field Surveys for California Red-legged Frogs*
(Guidance), issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Prior to
collecting the data requested on this form, the biologist should be
familiar with and understand the Guidance.

The ASite Assessments@ section of the Guidance details the data needed
to complete a site assessment. When submitting a complete site
assessment to the Service (one that has been done following the
Guidance), one data sheet should be included for each aquatic habitat
identified. If multiple aquatic habitats are identified within the
project site, then multiple data sheets should be completed. A narrative
description of the aquatic, riparian, and upland habitats should be
provided to characterize the breeding habitat within the project site
and the breeding and dispersal habitat within 1.6 kilometers (1 mile) of
the project site. In addition to completing this data sheet, field
notes, photographs, and maps should be provided to the appropriate Fish
and Wildlife Service Office, as requested in the ASite Assessments@
section of the Guidance.

**Appendix D.**

**[California Red-legged Frog Habitat Site Assessment Data
Sheet]{.underline}**

**Site Assessment reviewed
by\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_**

**(FWS Field Office) (date) (biologist)**

**Date of Site Assessment:**

**(mm/dd/yyyy)**

**Site Assessment Biologists: (Last name) (first name) (Last name)
(first name)**

**(Last name) (first name) (Last name) (first name)**

**Site Location: (County, General location name, UTM Coordinates or
Lat./Long. or T-R-S ).**

**\*\*ATTACH A MAP** (include habitat types, important features, and
species locations)\*\*

Proposed project name:

Brief description of proposed action:

1\) Is this site within the current or historic range of the CRF (circle
one)? YES NO

2\) Are there known records of CRF within 1.6 km (1 mi) of the site
(circle one)? YES NO

If yes, attach a list of all known CRF records with a map showing all
locations.

**[GENERAL AQUATIC HABITAT CHARACTERIZATION]{.underline}**

*(if multiple ponds or streams are within the proposed action area, fill
out one data sheet for each)*

**POND**:

Size: Maximum depth:

Vegetation: emergent, overhanging, dominant species:

> Substrate:

**Perennial or Ephemeral** *(circle one).* If ephemeral, date it goes
dry:

**Appendix D.**

**[California Red-legged Frog Habitat Site Assessment Data
Sheet]{.underline}**

**STREAM**:

Bank full width:

Depth at bank full:

Stream gradient:

Are there pools (circle one)? YES NO

If yes,

Size of stream pools:

> Maximum depth of stream pools:

Characterize non-pool habitat: run, riffle, glide, other:

Vegetation: emergent, overhanging, dominant species:

Substrate:

Bank description:

**Perennial or Ephemeral** *(circle one).* If ephemeral, date it goes
dry:

Other aquatic habitat characteristics, species observations, drawings,
or comments:

**Necessary Attachments:**

1.  All field notes and other supporting documents

2.  Site photographs

3.  Maps with important habitat features and species location

**Appendix E.**

**California Red-legged Frog Survey Data Sheet**

This data sheet is to assist in the data collection during surveys for
California red-legged frogs in areas with potential habitat. This data
sheet is intended to assist in the preparation of a final report on the
field surveys as detailed in the August 2005, *Revised Guidance on Site
Assessment and Field Surveys for California Red-legged Frogs* (Guidance)
issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service). Before
completing this data sheet, a site assessment should have been conducted
using the Guidance and the Service should have been contacted to
determine whether surveys are required. Prior to collecting the data
requested on this form, the biologist should be familiar with and
understand the Guidance. To avoid and minimize the potential of
harassment to California red-legged frogs, all survey activities shall
cease once an individual California red-legged frog has been identified
in the survey area, unless prior approval has been received from the
appropriate Service Fish and Wildlife Office. The Service
[shall]{.underline} be notified within three (3) working days by the
surveyor once a California red-legged frog is detected, at which point
the Service will provide further guidance. Surveys should take place in
consecutive breeding/non-breeding seasons (*i.e.,* the entire survey
period, including breeding and non-breeding surveys should not exceed 9
months). It is important that both the breeding and non-breeding survey
be conducted during the time period specified in the Guidance. Site
specific conditions may warrant modifications to the timing of survey
periods, modifications must be made with the Service's approval. The
survey consists of two (2) day and four (4) night surveys during the
breeding season and one (1) day and one (1) night surveys during the
non-breeding season.

All California red-legged frog life stages should be surveyed for.
Surveyors may detect larvae but not be able to identify this life stage
to species as handling any life stage of the California red-legged frog
necessitates a valid 10(a)(1)(A) permit. If the larval life stage is the
only life stage detected and the larvae are not identified to species,
the surveyor [must]{.underline} either return to the habitat to identify
the frog in another life stage or have a valid 10(a)(1)(A) permit
allowing the surveyor to handle California red-legged frogs and larvae.
In order for the Service to consider a survey to be complete, all frogs
encountered must be accurately identified.

**Appendix E.**

**[California Red-legged Frog Survey Data Sheet]{.underline}**

**Survey results reviewed
by\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_**

**(FWS Field Office) (date) (biologist)**

**Date of Survey: Survey Biologist:**

**(mm/dd/yyyy) (Last name) (first name)**

**Survey Biologist:**

**(Last name) (first name)**

**Site Location: (County, General location name, UTM Coordinates or
Lat./Long. or T-R-S ).**

**\*\*ATTACH A MAP** (include habitat types, important features, and
species locations)\*\*

Proposed project name:

Brief description of proposed action:

**Type of Survey** (circle one): **DAY NIGHT BREEDING NON-BREEDING**

**Survey number** (circle one): **1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8**

**Begin Time: End Time:**

**Cloud cover: Precipitation:**

**Air Temperature: Water Temperature:**

**Wind Speed: Visibility Conditions:**

**Moon phase: Humidity:**

**Description of weather conditions:**

**Brand name and model of light used to conduct surveys:**

**Were binoculars used for the surveys** (circle one)**? YES NO**

**Brand, model, and power of binoculars:**

**Appendix E.**

**[California Red-legged Frog Survey Data Sheet]{.underline}**

AMPHIBIAN OBSERVATIONS

  ------------------- ---------- ------------ -------------- --------- ------------------
  **Species**         **\# of    **Observed   **Life         **Size    **Certainty of
                      indiv.**   (O) Heard    Stages**       Class**   Identification**
                                 (H)**                                 

                                                                       

                                                                       

                                                                       

                                                                       

                                                                       

                                                                       
  ------------------- ---------- ------------ -------------- --------- ------------------

Describe potential threats to California red-legged frogs observed,
including non-native and native predators such as fish, bullfrogs, and
raccoons:

Other notes, observations, comments, *etc.*

**Necessary Attachments:**

4.  All field notes and other supporting documents

5.  Site photographs

6.  Maps with important habitat features and species locations