National Park Service

U.S. Department of the Interior

Natural Resource Program Center

Mammal and Herpetological Inventories of Nez Perce 

National Historical Park 2002

Upper Columbia Basin Network

Natural Resource Report NPS/UCBN/NRR—2010/179
ON THE COVER

Swartz Pond at White Bird Battlefield, Nez Perce National Historical Park

Photo courtesy of Crystal Strobl
Mammal and Herpetological Inventories of 

Nez Perce National Historical Park 2002

Upper Columbia Basin Network

Natural Resource Report NPS/UCBN/NRR—2010/179

Crystal Ann Strobl

University of Idaho

Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources

PO Box 441136

Moscow, Idaho 83844-1136

Thomas J. Rodhouse

National Park Service

Upper Columbia Basin Network

Central Oregon Community College, 2600 NW College Way – Ponderosa Building

Bend, Oregon 97701-5998

Lisa K. Garrett

National Park Service, Upper Columbia Basin Network

University of Idaho, Department of Fish and Wildlife

Moscow, Idaho 83844-1136

March 2010

U.S. Department of the Interior

National Park Service

Natural Resource Program Center

Fort Collins, Colorado
ii

The National Park Service, Natural Resource Program Center publishes a range of reports that 

address natural resource topics of interest and applicability to a broad audience in the National 

Park Service and others in natural resource management, including scientists, conservation and 

environmental constituencies, and the public. 

The Natural Resource Technical Report Series is used to disseminate results of scientific studies 

in the physical, biological, and social sciences for both the advancement of science and the 

achievement of the National Park Service mission. The series provides contributors with a forum 

for displaying comprehensive data that are often deleted from journals because of page 

limitations. 

All manuscripts in the series receive the appropriate level of peer review to ensure that the 

information is scientifically credible, technically accurate, appropriately written for the intended 

audience, and designed and published in a professional manner. This report received formal peer 

review by subject-matter experts who were not directly involved in the collection, analysis, or 

reporting of the data, and whose background and expertise put them on par technically and 

scientifically with the authors of the information.

Views, statements, findings, conclusions, recommendations, and data in this report are those of 

the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect views and policies of the National Park Service, U.S. 

Department of the Interior. Mention of trade names or commercial products does not constitute 

endorsement or recommendation for use by the National Park Service.

This report is available from the Upper Columbia Basin Network website 

(http://www.nature.nps.gov/im/units/UCBN) and the Natural Resource Publications 

Management website (http://www.nature.nps.gov/publications/NRPM).

Please cite this publication as:

Strobl, C., T. J. Rodhouse, and L. K. Garrett. 2010. Mammal and herpetological inventories of 

Nez Perce National Historical Park 2002: Upper Columbia Basin Network. Natural Resource

Technical Report NPS/UCBN/NRR—2010/179. National Park Service, Fort Collins, Colorado.

NPS 429/101121, March 2010
iii

Contents 

Page 

Figures..............................................................................................................................................v

Tables............................................................................................................................................ vii

Appendices..................................................................................................................................... ix

Executive Summary....................................................................................................................... xi

Acknowledgements...................................................................................................................... xiii

Introduction......................................................................................................................................1

Study Areas......................................................................................................................................3

Spalding ...............................................................................................................................4

White Bird Battlefield..........................................................................................................5

Heart of the Monster............................................................................................................5

Bear Paw Battlefield ............................................................................................................6

Dug Bar................................................................................................................................6

Methods............................................................................................................................................7

Expected Species .................................................................................................................7

Sampling Site Selection .......................................................................................................8

Sampling Techniques...........................................................................................................8

Site Characteristics and Environmental Measures..................................................8

Visual Encounter Surveys........................................................................................9

Dip netting ...............................................................................................................9

Cover Turning........................................................................................................10

Road Surveys..........................................................................................................10

Trapping.................................................................................................................10
iv

Contents

Page 

Data Management ..............................................................................................................11

Results............................................................................................................................................13

Amphibians and Reptiles...................................................................................................15

Expected and Confirmed Species................................................................................15

Mammals............................................................................................................................21

Expected and Confirmed Species................................................................................21

Results by Site....................................................................................................................31

Spalding ......................................................................................................................31

White Bird Battlefield .................................................................................................32

Heart of the Monster...................................................................................................33

Bear Paw Battlefield...................................................................................................34

Dug Bar ......................................................................................................................34

Bats ....................................................................................................................................35

Abundance .........................................................................................................................36

Discussion......................................................................................................................................37

Management Recommendations........................................................................................37

Spalding ......................................................................................................................37

White Bird Battlefield .................................................................................................38

Heart of the Monster...................................................................................................38

Bear Paw Battlefield...................................................................................................38

Dug Bar ......................................................................................................................38

Literature Cited ..............................................................................................................................41
v

Figures

Page

Figure 1. Perce National Historical Park sites sampled during the 2002 field season....................3

Figure 2. Sherman live trap transect locations and reptile and amphibian incidental observations 

during the 2002 vertebrate inventory at Spalding, Idaho...............................................................31

Figure 3. Trapping locations and incidental observations of reptiles and amphibians in the White 

Bird Battlefield during the 2002 inventory....................................................................................32

Figure 4. Trap locations and herpetofauna incidental observations during the 2002 inventory at 

Heart of the Monster (Kamiah), Nez Perce National Historical Site.............................................33

Figure 5. Trap and herpetofauna locations during the 2002 inventory of Bear Paw Battlefield, 

Nez Perce National Historical Park. ..............................................................................................34

Figure 6. Trap locations in Dug Bar during the 2002 Nez Perce National Historical Park 

vertebrate inventory. ......................................................................................................................35

Figure 7. Incidental observations of reptiles and amphibians in the Dug Bar during the 2002 

inventory of Nez Perce National Historical Park...........................................................................39

vii

Tables 

Page

Table 1. Idaho Vegetation and Land Cover and Montana Land Cover Atlas Classification 

System categories found within the Nez Perce National Historical Park sites................................4

Table 2. List of amphibians and reptiles expected to occur in at least 1 of the 5 sites included in 

the 2002 Nez Perce National Historical Park mammal and herpetological inventory. .................13

Table 3. List of mammals (excluding bats) expected to occur in at least 1 of the 5 sites included 

in the 2002 Nez Perce National Historical Park mammal and herpetological inventory ..............14

Table 4. Spalding amphibian and reptile species summary table .................................................15

Table 5. White Bird Battlefield amphibian and reptile species summary table............................16

Table 6. Heart of the Monster amphibian and reptile species summary table ..............................18

Table 7. Bear Paw Battlefield amphibian and reptile species summary table. .............................19

Table 8. Dug Bar amphibian and reptile species summary table ..................................................20

Table 9. Spalding mammal species summary table ......................................................................21

Table 10. White Bird mammal species summary table.................................................................23

Table 11. Heart of the Monster mammal species summary table ................................................ 24

Table 12. Bear Paw mammal species summary table ...................................................................26

Table 13. Dug Bar mammal species summary table.....................................................................27

Table 14. Number of amphibian and reptile species detected at each site through sign (tracks, 

den sites, scat, calls, etc.), trapping, and/or direct observation......................................................28

Table 15. Number of mammal species detected at each site through sign (tracks, den sites, scat, 

calls, etc.), trapping, and/or direct observation..............................................................................29

ix

Appendices

Page

Appendix A. Key to the NPSpecies codes.....................................................................................43

Appendix B. Summaries of species inventory information...........................................................57

Appendix C. Field data forms........................................................................................................67

Appendix D. Species inventory photo collection ..........................................................................71

xi

Executive Summary

The mission of the National Park Service is “to conserve unimpaired the natural and cultural 

resources and values of the national park system for the enjoyment of this and future 

generations” (National Park Service 1999). To uphold this goal, the Director of the NPS 

approved the Natural Resource Challenge to encourage national parks to focus on the 

preservation of the nation’s natural heritage through science, natural resource inventories, and 

expanded resource monitoring (National Park Service 1999). Through the Challenge, 270 parks 

in the national park system were organized into 32 inventory and monitoring networks.

The Upper Columbia Basin Network (UCBN) has identified 14 priority park vital signs, or 

indicators of ecosystem health, that represent a broad suite of ecological phenomena operating 

across multiple temporal and spatial scales. Our intent has been to develop a balanced and 

integrated suite of vital signs that meets the needs of current park management, and that also will 

accommodate unanticipated environmental conditions and management questions in the future.

The primary objective of the 2002 mammal and herpetological inventory was to document 90% 

of all mammals (excluding bats), amphibians, and reptiles that potentially occur within Nez 

Perce National Historical Park. The University of Idaho Department of Fish and Wildlife 

Resources conducted the 2002 inventory under a cooperative agreement with the National Park 

Service Northern Semi-Arid Network (now called the Upper Columbia Basin Network).

Inventories were conducted at 5 sites within Nez Perce National Historical Park. The sites were 

chosen by the resource manager at Nez Perce National Historical Park and were based on 

acreage and natural resource importance to the park. Additional goals of the inventory included 

development of baseline data for use in long-term monitoring, and the collection and 

dissemination of new information on the distribution, habitat association, and population status 

of the region’s biological resources.

Expected species lists were developed by reviewing range maps, interviewing park staff, and 

obtaining habitat data from the Idaho GAP Analysis program. This effort resulted in a species list 

that included 14 species of amphibians and reptiles and 34 species of non-volant mammals 

expected to occur in at least one of the 5 park sites included in the inventory. A total of 11 

species of amphibians and reptiles were confirmed, representing 78% of the expected species. A 

total of 28 species of mammals were confirmed, representing 82% of the expected species. Four 

of the confirmed species, the western toad (Bufo boreas), the ringneck snake (Diadophis 

punctatus), the river otter (Lontra canadensis), and the bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) are 

listed as sensitive species by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and species of special 

concern by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG).

Sampling techniques used in this inventory project included visual encounter surveys, dipnetting, 

cover turning, road surveys, and trapping. Although bats were not included in the 2002 inventory 

due to logistical constraints, sites with bat activity were noted for future surveys. A total of 80 

mammal, reptile, and amphibian species were observed within the study area, including all four 

expected species with state sensitive and federal species of concern status. Bullfrogs (Rana 

catebeiana), an introduced species, were detected at two localities (White Bird Battlefield and 
xii

Heart of the Monster) during this study. Control of this species should be taken into 

consideration.

The western toad was the most widely distributed amphibian with the highest estimated 

abundance across all sites sampled. The bullfrog had the second highest abundance, occurring at 

two locations. The racer (Coluber constrictor) was the most widely distributed reptile with the 

highest abundance across all sites sampled. The western terrestrial garter snake (Thamnophis 

elegans) had the second highest abundance within all sites sampled. The mammals with the 

highest occurrence across all five sampling sites were the coyote (Canis latrans), the deer mouse 

(Peromyscus maniculatus), the mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus), the white-tailed deer 

(Odocoileus virginianus), and the northern pocket gopher (Thomomys talpoides).
xiii

Acknowledgements

The 2002 Nez Perce National Historical Park mammal and herpetological inventory was made 

possible through a cooperative agreement between the NPS Northern Semi-Arid Network (now 

called the Upper Columbia Basin Network) and University of Idaho Department of Fish and 

Wildlife Resources. We would like to thank Gerry Wright of USGS Idaho Cooperative Wildlife 

Research Unit and the Nez Perce National Historical Park for providing leadership, direction, 

and enthusiasm for the project. Special thanks go also to Chuck Peterson, Dan Foster, Jason 

Lyon, and Jack Sullivan’s Biology Laboratory for resource materials, species identification, and 

information regarding natural history of selected species. The NPS personnel at Spalding and 

Bear Paw provided invaluable assistance with species observation reports, sampling assistance, 

and cooperation during the entire study.

1

Introduction

This report summarizes the results of the 2002 mammal (excluding bats) and herpetological 

inventory for the Nez Perce National Historical Park (NEPE). The mammal inventory did not 

include bats within its scope due to logistical constraints. The inventory was conducted by the 

University of Idaho Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources under a cooperative agreement 

with the National Park Service Northern Semi-Arid Network (now called the Upper Columbia 

Basin Network). The inventory is part of a nationwide inventory and monitoring (I&M) program 

initiated by the National Park Service Natural Resource Challenge. This program seeks to 

increase the capacity of the National Park Service (NPS) to assess the current state of natural 

resources within the NPS system and to enhance its ability to take a leading role in preserving 

the nation’s biological diversity of plants and animals. Completing basic biological inventories is 

a crucial first step in achieving that goal.

In 2000, the Northern Semi-Arid Network (now called the Upper Columbia Basin Network) 

began implementing the inventory phase of the I&M program in several of the network parks 

and monuments. Historic information available on the plant and animal populations within the 

network were assembled and an estimate was made of the percent of species expected to occur in 

each park. NEPE was among the majority of network parks that had a low (below 50%) 

percentage of confirmed vertebrates. Prior to the I&M program, only one preliminary effort to 

inventory birds and small mammals had been made (Monello and Wright 1998). In 2000 a bird 

inventory for the park was completed under direction from University of Idaho for the I&M 

program (Dixon 2005). Fieldwork for this mammal and herpetological inventory was conducted 

between March and August 2002.

The objectives of the 2002 mammal and herpetological inventory at NEPE were to: (1) 

Document 90% of the mammals and herpetofauna expected to occur in the park; (2) gather 

baseline data for use in future monitoring; (3) collect and disseminate new information on the 

distribution, habitat association, and population status of the mammal and herpetological species 

of the region.

3

Study Area

The Nez Perce National Historic Park (NEPE) consists of 38 sites widely scattered across 

western Montana, Idaho, eastern Washington, and eastern Oregon. The park was established in 

1965 and originally contained 24 sites. In 1992, 14 additional sites were added to the park, 

including those outside Idaho. The 2002 vertebrate inventory was conducted in 5 sites. Three 

sites were located in central Idaho and included the Spalding site, which serves as the park 

headquarters. The two other Idaho sites included in the inventory were White Bird Battlefield 

and Heart of the Monster (East Kamiah). Bear Paw Battlefield, located in north central Montana, 

and Dug Bar, located along the Snake River in northeastern Oregon, were also included in the 

inventory. Figure 1 shows the locations of each of the five sites. The acreages for each site 

included in the inventory reflect the resource areas actively managed by the NPS and not 

additional private land held in easement.

Figure 1. Nez Perce National Historical Park sites sampled during the 2002 field season.

Each of the sites included in the 2002 inventory are ecologically distinct from each other. 

Ecological distinctions were based on habitat types, elevation, hydrology, and climatic patterns.

Vegetative characteristics for the sites in Idaho and Oregon were evaluated using the Idaho 

Vegetation and Land Cover Classification System (Redmond et al. 1997, Homer et al. 1998). 
4

Bear Paw Battlefield in Montana, was evaluated using the Montana Land Cover Atlas (Fisher et 

al. 1998). Idaho and Oregon sites are represented by non-forested lands, forested uplands, and 

riparian and wetland area vegetation and land cover classes. The Montana site, Bear Paw 

Battlefield, is represented by altered herbaceous, sagebrush, and shrub riparian land cover 

classes. The categories and sub-categories used to further characterize these distinct classes are 

explained in detail in Table 1. These land cover subdivisions were used in the inventory to 

represent unique habitat types.

Table 1. Idaho Vegetation and Land Cover and Montana Land Cover Atlas Classification System 

categories found within the Nez Perce National Historical Park sites.

Survey 

Site

Classification 

Number

Classification 

Categories

SubCategory 

Code

Classification 

Sub-Categories Habitat Type

Spalding 3000

Non-Forested 

Lands 31XX Grassland

3102 Disturbed 

Grassland

4000 Forest Uplands 43XX

Mixed 

Needleleaf/Broadleaf 

Forest 

4301 Mixed 

Needleleaf/Broadleaf 

Forest

Kamiah 3000

Non-Forested 

Lands 31XX Grassland

3102 Disturbed 

Grassland

6000

Riparian and 

Wetland Areas 61XX Forested Riparian

6202 Shrub Dominated 

Riparian

White 

Bird 3000

Non-Forested 

Lands 31XX Grassland

3102 Disturbed 

Grassland

3000

Non-Forested 

Lands 31XX Grassland 3109 Perennial Grassland

3000

Non-Forested 

Lands 32XX Mesic Shrublands

3201 Mesic Upland 

Shrubs

Bear 

Paw 3110 Altered Herbaceous

3350 Sagebrush

6300 Shrub Riparian

Dug Bar 3000

Non-Forested 

Lands 31XX Grassland

3102 Disturbed 

Grassland

3000

Non-Forested 

Lands 33XX Xeric Shrublands

3305 Mountain Big 

Sagebrush

Spalding

This 100-acre site is located within the Nez Perce Indian Reservation on the confluence of 

Lapwai Creek and the Clearwater River about 16 km (10 miles) east of Lewiston, Idaho on 

Highway 95. Elevations at this site range from 233 m (766 ft) to 251 m (825 ft). There are two 

distinct habitat types present; mixed needleleaf/broadleaf forest and disturbed grassland. The 

majority of the mixed needleleaf/broadleaf forest community consists of the following species; 

ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa), prickly rose (Rosa acicularis), black cottonwood (Populus 

balsamifera), maple (Acer spp.), and willow (Salix spp.). The disturbed grassland community is 

dominated by the following species; cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum), spotted knapweed 

(Centaurea maculosa), red clover (Trifolium pratense), yarrow (Achillea millefolium), and 

yellow starthistle (Centaurea solstitialis). Thirty-year (1971-2000) climate data collected in 
5

Lewiston indicate that the Spalding site is relatively dry, with mean annual precipitation totaling 

only 13 inches (Idaho State Climate Services 2003). Thirty-year mean temperatures for January 

and July are 34o

F and 60oF, respectively (Idaho State Climate Services 2003). January and July 

mean maximum and minimum temperatures for the same period are 39oF and 28oF, and 88oF and 

74oF, respectively (Idaho State Climate Services 2003). Lapwai Creek is a permanent stream that 

flows through the Spalding site. Water flow in Lapwai Creek decreases substantially in early 

July.

White Bird Battlefield

White Bird Battlefield is located about 24 km (15 mi) south of Grangeville, Idaho between 

Highway 95 and the old White Bird Grade, roughly 1 km from the town of White Bird. 

Elevations at this site range from 518 m (1700 ft) to 976 m (3200 ft). This site contains 

approximately 1245 acres of rolling hills. There are three distinct habitat types located at this 

site; disturbed grassland, perennial grassland, and mesic upland shrubs. The disturbed grassland 

community has the following species present; Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense), spotted 

knapweed (Centaurea maculosa), Scotch thistle (Onopordon acanthium), yellow star thistle 

(Centaurea solstitialis), and cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum). The perennial grassland community 

includes bluegrass (Poa spp.), intermediate wheatgrass (Agropyron intermedium), and needle 

and thread (Stipa comata). The mesic upland shrub community consists of chokecherry (Prunus 

virginiana), willow (Salix spp.), black hawthorn (Crataegus douglasii), and prickly rose (Rosa 

acicularis). Thirty-year climate data collected in Grangeville indicates that mean annual 

precipitation is 24 inches (Idaho State Climate Services 2003). Thirty-year mean temperatures 

for January and July are 24o

F and 52oF, respectively. Mean maximum and minimum 

temperatures for January and July during the same period is 38o

F and 31oF, and 82oF and 67oF, 

respectively (Idaho State Climate Services 2003). Available water at this site is contained within 

Swartz pond and a small spring located on the east edge of the battlefield near the boundary line.

Heart of the Monster

This 53-acre site located on the Clearwater River, within the Nez Perce Indian Reservation, is 

about 32 km (20 mi) east of Orofino, Idaho on Highway 12. Elevations at this site range from 

360 m (1183 ft) to 378 m (1242 ft). The Heart of the Monster has two distinct habitat types

present; shrub dominated riparian and disturbed grassland. The shrub dominated riparian 

community consists of species such as Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), prickly rose (Rosa 

acicularis), common snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus), red-osier dogwood (Cornus sericea), 

black cottonwood (Populus balsamifera), and willow (Salix spp.). The disturbed grassland 

includes spotted knapweed (Centaurea maculosa), Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense), field 

bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis), Scotch thistle (Onopordon acanthium), and black medic 

(Medicago lupulina). Thirty-year climate data collected in Orofino indicates that mean annual 

precipitation is 27 inches (Idaho State Climate Services 2003). Thirty-year mean temperatures 

for January and July are 25o

F and 53oF, respectively. Mean maximum and minimum 

temperatures for January and July during the same period is 38oF and 31oF, and 88oF and 71oF, 

respectively (Idaho State Climate Services 2003). In addition to riparian habitat along the 

Clearwater River, this site also has a pond that is formed by spring overflow from the river.
6

Bear Paw Battlefield 

Bear Paw Battlefield is 190 acres and is located 25 km (16 mi) south of Chinook, Montana along 

the Cleveland Road (Highway 240). Elevations at this site range from 908 m (2979 ft) to 927 m 

(3040 ft). There are three distinct habitat types that are present at the battlefield; altered 

herbaceous, sagebrush, and shrub riparian. Species in the altered herbaceous type include 

stinging nettle (Urtica dioica), crested wheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum), smooth brome 

(Bromus inermis), common tansymustard (Descurainia sophia), cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum), 

and Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense). The sagebrush habitat community consists of big 

sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata), needle and thread (Stipa comata), Sandberg bluegrass (Poa 

sandbergii), common snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus), and blue gramma (Bouteloua gracilis). 

The shrub riparian type includes willow (Salix spp.), rose (Rosa spp.), currant (Ribes spp.), boxelder (Acer negundo), and black cottonwood (Populus balsamifera). Climate data collected in 

Chinook indicates that Bear Pay Battlefield is relatively dry. Thirty-year mean annual 

precipitation is only 13 inches (Western Regional Climate Center 2003). Thirty-year mean 

temperatures for January and July are not available, but mean maximum and minimum 

temperatures for January and July during the 30-year period is 28o

F and 3oF, and 84oF and 52oF, 

respectively (Western Regional Climate Center 2003). Riparian habitat in the site occurs along 

Snake Creek, an ephemeral stream that flows only a few weeks out of the year and is subject to 

irrigation demands from private landowners adjacent to the battlefield.

Dug Bar

Dug Bar is located about 40 km (25 mi) north of Imnaha, Oregon, along the Snake River. 

Elevations at this site range from 305 m (1000 ft) to 366 m (1200 ft). Dug Bar has two distinct 

habitat types present; disturbed grassland and mountain big sagebrush. The disturbed grassland 

habitat consists mainly of the following species; cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum), common 

tansymustard (Descurainia sophia), and yarrow (Achillea millefolium). The big sagebrush 

community consists of the following; big sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata), brittle prickly-pear 

cactus (Opuntia fragilis), and junegrass (Koeleria macrantha). Climate data for this site is 

sparse. A rain gauge at the site indicates that mean annual precipitation is 13 inches. This is 

significantly lower than the nearest state climate station in Grangeville, Idaho. This disparity 

suggests that the temperature data available for Grangeville is not a reliable estimate for the Dug 

Bar site. The Snake River is the only natural water source on the site.
7

Methods

The methods utilized in the 2002 inventory generally follow those laid out in the Northern SemiArid Network (now called the Upper Columbia Basin Network) Study Plan (Wright et al.,

unpublished) and a previous network herpetological inventory (Shive and Peterson 2002).

Methods and procedures were adapted to accommodate logistical constraints.

All locations provided in this report were collected as Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) 

coordinates (Zone 11 &12) using a Garmin 12-channel Etrex hand-held GPS unit (Garmin 

International, Inc. Olathe, KS). The North American Datum of 1927 was used as the horizontal 

datum for all locations. Elevations were also collected using the GPS unit. UTM locations were 

collected at all of the survey sites including the starting points of small mammal transects, wire 

funnel trap deployment locations, wetland survey sites, and at points of incidental observations. 

All coordinates were collected with navigational accuracy of 18 m or less. In a few instances 

locations could not be recorded within the desired accuracy, due to topographical disruptions, 

and accuracy within 30 m was accepted and recorded.

Scientific and common names used in this report follow the Integrated Taxonomic Information 

System (ITIS). The ITIS follows closely the USGS Biological Resource Division’s unpublished 

and expanded update of the 1987 Checklist of Vertebrates of the United States, the U.S. 

Territories, and Canada (ITIS 2003). All 2002 vertebrate documentations are added to the 

NPSpecies database that also follows ITIS. A key to the species status codes used in NPSpecies 

and summary tables of the status of expected and unlikely species in the park are included in 

Appendix A.

Expected Species 

Expected species lists were generated for each site in the Nez Perce National Historic Park 

included in the 2002 vertebrate inventory. Species were determined to be “expected” by using 

the following criteria: (1) the study site is within the species predicted range; (2) the elevation is 

comparable to species observations made at similar localities; (3) the appropriate habitat for the 

species exists within the site; and (4) the species’ detectability was considered and given a 

likelihood rating. A species was determined to be “likely” to occur in the park if at least three of 

the criteria were supported. A species was classified as “possible” if it only met two of the 

criteria and if the detectability was “variable”. A species was classified as “unlikely” if only one 

of the criteria was supported and if the detectability was “low.” In order to thoroughly evaluate 

the species that were potentially occurring at these sites, several criteria were used to consider a 

species for the list. Appendix B contains summaries of each species’ status based on these 

criteria.

A variety of reference materials were examined to determine species ranges, elevation

tolerances, and habitat requirements and included the Digital Atlas of Idaho (2000), Montana 

Gap Analysis (1998), Atlas of Oregon Wildlife (2001), National Audubon Society Field Guide to 

North American Mammals (1998), Amphibians of Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia 

(1996), Reptiles of the Northwest (2002), Mammals of the Rocky Mountains (2000), A Field 

Guide to Western Reptiles and Amphibians (1985), and Reptiles of Washington and Oregon 

(2000). Information on historic observations made by NEPE staff was also incorporated into the 
8

development of expected species lists. This process resulted in a total list of expected species for 

NEPE across all 5 sites and included 6 amphibians, 8 reptiles, and 34 mammals.

Sampling Site Selection

Using the information accumulated by the expected species list, sampling site selection and 

sampling techniques were derived. Survey sites were primarily concentrated in areas with 

suitable habitat for target species (i.e., lakes, ponds, riparian areas, forested areas, south-facing 

aspects). The locations of historic observations made by NPS personnel were also chosen for 

sampling sites as well, in order to maximize the possibility of encountering target species. An 

additional set of survey locations was also located in areas where animal activity was 

conspicuous (i.e., dens, game trails, cavities). Photo documentation was taken with a Nikon 

Coolpix E995 digital camera for each locality to provide managers and researchers with an 

accurate visual description of the area. These photographs may also be used as photo points by 

NPS staff in order to detect and document future changes in habitat.

Sampling Techniques

Surveys were conducted between March and August 2002. Sites were sampled at various times 

during this field season to detect different life stages of individuals and to document prime 

activity patterns of potential species. Following recommendations by Olson et al. (1997), all of 

the locations were sampled at least twice throughout the field season except Dug Bar. This site

was only sampled once due to its remote location, difficult accessibility, and time constraints. 

Spalding was sampled on March 31-April 4, April 10-13, May 31-June 4, and August 13-15 for a 

total of seventeen sampling days. White Bird Battlefield was sampled on May 2, 6, 25, 28-31, 

and August 15-17 for a total of ten sampling days. Heart of the Monster (East Kamiah) was 

sampled on June 13-15 and August 17-19 for a total of six sampling days. Bear Paw Battlefield 

was sampled on June 7-9 and July 3-5 for a total of six sampling days. Dug Bar was sampled on 

June 25-28 for a total of four sampling days.

The search techniques that were used to obtain detection information were visual encounter 

surveys, dip netting, cover turning, road surveys, and a variety of mammal and herpetological 

trapping procedures. An array of environmental characteristics was collected at each sampling 

site as well. Each technique is described in further detail below.

Site Characteristics and Environmental Measurements

Each aquatic site sampled in the 2002 inventory was classified according to the National 

Wetlands Inventory (NWI) classification (Cowardin et al. 1979) criteria of wetland and 

deepwater habitats. The physical and biological characteristics of each lake, pond, or creek site 

were described using a standard form (Appendix C, form 1). Certain environmental 

measurements were observed and collected, such as radiation, wind speed, cloud cover, 

precipitation, air, and water temperature. An Oakton TDSTestr High+ was used to measure 

conductivity and an Oakton pH Testr 2 with ATC (Forestry Supply, Jackson, MS) was used to 

measure pH. 

Each site was described using characteristics such as origin, drainage, site type, length, width, 

maximum depth, color, and turbidity. Site width and length were visually estimated and the 

depth was ranked into one of three categories (<1 m, 1-2 m, >2 m). Water temperature was taken 

within the shade at a depth of 1 cm using a mercury thermometer. Air temperature was also taken 
9

in the shade at a height of 1 m on the edge of the riparian zone. Some other wetland habitat 

characteristics such as primary substrate, percent emergent vegetation, emergent vegetation 

species, north shore characteristics, distance to forest edge, and forest tree species were all

recorded on the data sheets.

The calibration of pH and conductivity meters was done on May 30th and on July 15th using 

buffer solutions. All waders, dip nets, and aquatic funnel traps were sterilized with a bleach 

solution (10-20%) after each site was surveyed. The cleaning of sampling gear was implemented 

to decrease the chances of spreading bacteria, pollutants, or disease throughout the study area.

Terrestrial sites included in small mammal transects and wire funnel trap locations had the 

following site and environmental characteristics recorded; UTM, transect bearing, topographic 

position, location description, general habitat description, and weather during the trap period 

(Appendix C, forms 2 and 3). Slope and aspect of each site were only recorded if they were 

applicable to a site. Notes were also made on the moon phase during mammal trapping activities. 

All traps were sterilized with a bleach solution (10-20%) after each trapping session in order to 

protect both the biologist and the animals.

Visual Encounter Surveys

This method was used quite frequently with a great deal of success, and included traveling 

throughout a locality searching for signs of amphibians, reptiles, small mammals, and bats. All 

habitat types and areas with suitable characteristics needed by the target species were surveyed 

extensively. Examples of animal sign used to confirm species presence were tracks, scat, shed 

antlers, calls, and evidence of den sites. The surveys were conducted throughout the day and 

included nighttime hours for the detection of nocturnal or diurnal species that are commonly 

cryptic and secretive.

In addition to focused visual encounter surveys, many incidental observations of vertebrates 

were made during travel through study areas or during other inventory activities. Incidental 

observations of amphibian and reptile species were documented using a standard form for 

detection (Appendix C, form 4). A detailed description of the animal’s location/behavior, 

topographic position, habitat type, and weather were recorded. Both air temperature and ground 

temperature were obtained for incidental observations of reptiles. Photographic documentation 

was also taken for representative species residing at each site.

Throughout the entire study, any potential sightings or future trapping localities for various bat 

species were recorded. This location information may be valuable for any future inventory or

research on bats in the park.

Dip netting

Dip-nets were an effective tool for catching and observing all life stages of amphibians as well as 

some reptilian species. In lacustrine (e.g., lakes) and palustrine (e.g., pools, marsh) situations, all 

shorelines, pools, and near-shore waters were searched at a slow rate in order to maximize 

detection. Dip netting was particularly effective in areas with dense emergent vegetation. In 

these areas, the observer swept the dip-net every 2 meters, both in front of and on either side of 

the direction of travel.
10

Cover Turning

This method had a high rate of success and proved to be very helpful in detecting reptile and 

amphibian species. Large boulders, logs, and human-made structures are examples of objects 

that may be used when an animal takes to refuge. These objects were frequently turned over in 

all localities. Objects were carefully replaced after inspection and the same cover objects were 

never flipped repeatedly (e.g., every day) in order to minimize disturbance.

Road Surveys

Many reptiles can be found along roads, basking at the edges during the day (e.g., garter snakes) 

or on the road itself in the early evening (e.g., gopher snakes, rattlesnakes). The presence of these 

animals on roads is most likely related to thermoregulation. Paved and gravel roads were the 

most productive for the inventory. All observations were recorded on a standard form for the 

documentation of individual reptilian and amphibian species. Road surveys were conducted 

during daytime and twilight hours on roads within the study sites or adjacent to the boundary line 

by slowly driving with low headlight beams.

Trapping

Many different types of trapping methods were implemented during the 2002 inventory that 

targeted amphibians, reptiles, and mammals. Wire funnel traps and aquatic funnel traps were 

used to capture amphibian and reptile species. Sherman live traps (LFATDG, H.B. Sherman 

Traps Inc.), museum special snap traps, small mammal live traps (7 x 7 x 24 in) were used to 

capture mammals. Wire funnel traps were successful in detection of all three groups of animals. 

Pitfall traps with drift-fences were also employed but were unsuccessful in capturing vertebrates.

Wire Funnel Traps: These traps were placed along objects present at the sites (e.g., downed trees, 

boulders, machinery), which had the potential of directing animals into traps. These traps were 

placed in all types of habitat present at each locality to increase chances for trapping success. 

Small mammals were frequently captured in these traps when placed in proximity to water.

Aquatic Funnel Traps: Traps were placed partially submerged in wetlands to allow for excess air 

to reduce mortality. Aquatic funnel traps employ a holding chamber with two tapered mouths 

that channel organisms toward a small entrance to the trap interior. Once inside, organisms tend 

to aggregate around edges where they cannot escape from the trap. The commercially available 

6mm (1/4 in) plastic mesh allowed water to circulate freely. To avoid losing traps, they were 

tethered to stakes, driven into the ground, then left over night, but checked at regular time 

intervals (not to exceed 24 hours).

Sherman Live Traps, Museum Special Snap Traps, Small Mammal Live Traps: Sherman live 

traps were deployed in combination with museum special snap traps in the study area to detect 

small mammals. Traps were placed along a line transect consisting of 5-10 stations with a 

Sherman live trap and a museum special snap trap. The stations were paced and marked with a 

flag every 10 m. All traps were baited with rolled oats, black-oil sunflower seeds, and peanut 

butter. Transects were pre-baited for 1-3 nights prior to opening of the trap line in order to 

increase trapping success. All traps were checked, closed, and reopened daily. The trapping 

period usually consisted of two consecutive trap nights. The small mammal live traps were 

baited with tuna and placed in a variety of locations depending on habitat and animal activity. 

These traps were checked and re-baited daily and deployed for at least two nights.
11

Pitfall Traps: This is a method that was both time and effort intensive and did not prove to be a 

successful survey tool during the 2002 inventory. Thirty-three cm (13 in) pitfalls were placed in 

the ground with tops flush with the surface of the soil and covered to protect animals from rain 

and sun. A 1.22 m (4 ft) drift fence was used in conjunction with two pitfall traps to intercept and 

divert the animals into the traps. The traps were usually placed in an area that had potential to 

route animals between water sources, rock outcrops, and other cover. These traps were checked 

twice a day in order to reduce mortality.

Data Management

All relevant information collected during the 2002 inventory was entered into Microsoft Excel 

for interpretation and analysis. Geographic locations of all Nez Perce National Historical Sites 

were stored and displayed using ArcMap and ArcView 3.2. Species status, abundance, residency, 

nativity, management priority, and exploitation concern information is archived in the NPSpecies 

database.

13

Results

Confirmed Species

Tables 2 and 3 show the list of expected herpetofauna and mammals and their status during the 

2002 inventory. 

Table 2. List of amphibians and reptiles expected to occur in at least 1 of the 5 sites included in the 2002 

Nez Perce National Historical Park mammal and herpetological inventory.

Genus Species Common Name Expected Confirmed Sitesa

Ambystoma macrodactylum long-toed salamander 1 1 W,D

Ambystoma tigrinum tiger salamander 1 0

Bufo boreas western toad 1 1 S,W

Hyla regilla Pacific treefrog 1 1 W

Rana lutieventris Columbia spotted frog 1 0

Rana catesbeiana bullfrog 1 1 W,H

Sceloporus occidentalis western fence lizard 1 1 D

Diadophis punctatus ring-necked snake 1 1 W

Coluber constrictor racer 1 1 S,W,H,D

Pituophis catenifer gopher snake 1 1 S,W,D

Thamnophis sirtalis common garter snake 1 0

Thamnophis elegans western terrestrial garter snake 1 1 S,W,H

Thamnophis radix plains garter snake 1 1 B

Crotalus viridis western rattlesnake 1 1 S,W,D

Total 14 11

% Confirmed 0.79 a The sites field refers to the 5 individual sites included in the Nez Perce National Historical Park inventory: 

S=Spalding, W=White Bird Battlefield, H=Heart of the Monster, B=Bear Paw Battlefield, D=Dug Bar.
14

Table 3. List of mammals (excluding bats) expected to occur in at least 1 of the 5 sites included in the 

2002 Nez Perce National Historical Park mammal and herpetological inventory.

Genus Species Common Name Expected Confirmed Sitesa

Sorex vagrans vagrant shrew 1 1 W,H

Sorex cinereus masked shrew 1 0

Sylvilagus nuttallii mountain cottontail 1 1 S

Lepus americanus snowshoe hare 1 0

Lepus townsendii white-tailed jackrabbit 1 1 B

Tamias amoenus yellow-pine chipmunk 1 0

Spermophilus columbianus Columbian ground squirrel 1 0

Spermophilus richardsonii Richardson's ground squirrel 1 1 B

Tamiasciurus hudsonicus red squirrel 1 1 S

Marmota flaviventris yellow-bellied marmot 1 1 S,W

Thomomys talpoides northern pocket gopher 1 1 S,W,H

Castor canadensis beaver 1 1 S,H

Reithrodontomys megalotis western harvest mouse 1 1 S,H

Peromyscus maniculatus deer mouse 1 1 S,W,H,B,D

Neotoma cinerea bushy-tailed woodrat 1 1 W,B

Clethrionomys gapperi southern red-backed vole 1 1 H

Microtus longicaudus long-tailed vole 1 1 H

Microtus pennsylvanicus meadow vole 1 1 H,B

Lemmiscus curtatus sagebrush vole 1 0

Ondatra zibethicus common muskrat 1 1 S,H

Canis latrans coyote 1 1 S,W,H,B,D

Vulpes vulpes red fox 1 1 S,B

Procyon lotor common raccoon 1 1 S,H

Mustela frenata long-tailed weasel 1 0 H

Mustela vison mink 1 1 S,H

Taxidea taxus American badger 1 1 S,W,B

Lutra canadensis river otter 1 1 S

Mephitis mephitis striped Skunk 1 1 S,B

Lynx rufus bobcat 1 1 S,W

Cervus elaphus elk 1 1 W

Odocoileus hemionus mule deer 1 1 H,B,D

Odocoileus virginianus white-tailed deer 1 1 S,W,H,B

Antilocapra americana pronghorn 1 1 B

Ovis canadensis bighorn sheep 1 1 D

Total 34 28

% Confirmed 0.82 a The sites field refers to the 5 individual sites included in the Nez Perce National Historical Park inventory: 

S=Spalding, W=White Bird Battlefield, H=Heart of the Monster, B=Bear Paw Battlefield, D=Dug Bar.
15

Amphibians and Reptiles

Expected and Confirmed Species

A total of 14 species of amphibians and reptiles were expected to occur in NEPE sites. Four 

species of amphibians and 7 species of reptiles were confirmed during the 2002 inventory, 

representing 78% of the expected species. Results at each of the 5 park sites were quite variable; 

therefore, they are treated separately in the following section. Tables 4-8 show the confirmed and 

possible amphibian and reptile species for each one of NEPE inventory sites.

Table 4. Spalding amphibian and reptile species summary table. This table provides concise information 

about expected and observed amphibian and reptile species with their corresponding legal status, and 

summarizes the study results by distribution, estimated abundance, type of voucher taken, successful 

survey techniques, and the observed life stages. See Appendix B for other species that may occur but 

researchers on this project judged not likely to occur.

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name

Conservation 

Status Distribution*

Estimated 

Abundance* Voucher

Successful 

Sampling 

Techniques* Comments

Park 

Status

Confirmed 

Amphibians

Bufo boreas

western 

toad S, SC Limited Abundant

Museum 

Specimen Visual Encounter Juvenile Present

Possible 

Amphibians

Rana 

lutieventris

Columbia 

spotted 

frog

Confirmed 

Reptiles

Coluber 

constrictor racer Limited Rare

Incidental 

Observation Adult Present

Pituophis 

catenifer

gopher 

snake Intermediate Rare Photograph

Incidental 

Observation

Juvenile, 

Adult Present

Thamnophis 

elegans

western 

terrestrial 

garter 

snake Limited Rare Photograph

Incidental 

Observation Adult Present

Crotalus viridis

western 

rattlesnake Limited Rare

Contributed 

Observation Adult Present

No Possible 

Reptiles

Classification 

Information:

Based on 

ranking from the 

Idaho 

Conservation 

Data Center 

2002

Widespread 

(3) 

Intermediate 

(2) Limited (1)

Abundant (>10) 

Common (6-10) 

Uncommon (3-

5) Rare (1-2)

Photograph 

Museum 

Specimen

Techniques 

Employed: 

Visual 

Encounters 

Road Driving 

Funnel Traps 

Incidental 

Observation 

Contributed 

Observation

Life Stages: 

Juveniles 

Adults

S(BLM)= 

Sensitive 

Species

* Based on this 

survey

* Based on this 

survey

SC(IDFG)= 

Species of 

Special Concern

Found in: 

3 locations 

2 locations 

1 location

>10 individuals 

6-10 individuals 

3-5 individuals 

1-2 individuals
16

Table 5. White Bird Battlefield amphibian and reptile species summary table. This table provides concise 

information about potential and observed amphibian and reptile species with their corresponding legal 

status, and summarizes the study results by distribution, estimated abundance, type of voucher taken, 

successful survey techniques, and the observed life stages. See Appendix B for other species that may 

occur but researchers on this project judged not likely to occur.

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name

Conserv. 

Status Distribution*

Estimated 

Abundance* Voucher

Successful 

Sampling 

Techniques* Comments

Park 

Status

Confirmed 

Amphibians

Ambystoma 

macrodactylu

m

long-toed 

salamander Limited Abundant

Museum 

Spec., 

Photo

Visual 

Encounter

Juvenile, 

Adult Present

Bufo boreas

western 

toad S, SC Limited Abundant

Museum 

Spec., 

Photo

Visual 

Encounter

Juvenile, 

Adult Present

Hyla regilla

Pacific 

treefrog Limited Abundant

Museum 

Spec., 

Photo

Visual 

Encounter

Juvenile, 

Adult Present

Rana 

catebeiana bullfrog Limited Rare Photo

Visual 

Encounter Adult Present

Possible 

Amphibians

Rana 

lutieventris

Columbia 

spotted frog

Confirmed 

Reptiles

Diadophis 

puncatus

ringneck 

snake S,SC Limited Rare Photo

Visual 

Encounter Juvenile Present

Coluber 

constrictor

racer

Limited Rare

Incidental 

Observation Adult Present

Pituophis 

catenifer

gopher 

snake Limited Rare Photo

Incidental 

Observation Juvenile Present

Thamnophis 

elegans

western 

terrestrial 

garter 

snake Intermediate Uncommon Photo

Visual 

Encounter, 

Incidental 

Observation

Juvenile, 

Adult Present

Crotalus 

viridis

western 

rattlesnake Intermediate Rare Photo

Visual 

Encounter, 

Incidental 

Observation, 

Road Driving Adult Present

Possible 

Reptiles

Thamnophis 

sirtalis

common 

garter 

snake
17

Table 5. (continued) White Bird Battlefield amphibian and reptile species summary table. This table 

provides concise information about potential and observed amphibian and reptile species with their 

corresponding legal status.

Classifying 

Information:

Based on 

ranking 

from the 

Idaho 

Conservati

on Data 

Center 

2002

Widespread 

(3) 

Intermediate 

(2) Limited (1)

Abundant 

(>10) 

Common (6-

10) 

Uncommon 

(3-5) Rare (1-

2)

Photogra

ph 

Museum 

Specime

n

Techniques 

Employed: 

Visual 

Encounters 

Road Driving 

Funnel Traps 

Incidental 

Observation 

Contributed 

Observation

Life Stages: 

Juveniles 

Adults

S(BLM)= 

Sensitive 

Species

* Based on 

this survey

* Based on 

this survey

SC(IDFG)= 

Species of 

Special 

Concern

Found in: 

3 locations 

2 locations 

1 location

>10 

individuals 

6-10 

individuals 

3-5 

individuals 

1-2 

individuals
18

Table 6. Heart of the Monster amphibian and reptile species summary table. This table provides concise 

information about potential and observed amphibian and reptile species with their corresponding legal 

status, and summarizes the study results by distribution, estimated abundance, type of voucher taken, 

successful survey techniques, and the observed life stages. See Appendix B for other species that may 

occur but researchers on this project judged not likely to occur.

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name

Conservation 

Status Distribution*

Estimated 

Abundance* Voucher

Successful 

Sampling 

Techniques* Comments

Park 

Status

Confirmed 

Amphibians

Rana 

catesbeiana bullfrog Intermediate Abundant

Museum 

Specimen

Visual 

Encounter

Juvenile, 

Adult Present

No Possible 

Amphibians

Confirmed 

Reptiles

Coluber 

constrictor

racer

Limited Rare

Incidental 

Observation Adult Present

Thamnophis 

elegans

western terrestrial 

garter snake Intermediate Uncommon

Museum 

Specimen

Visual 

Encounter Adult Present

Possible 

Reptiles

Pituophis 

catenifer gopher snake

Thamnophis 

sirtalis

common garter 

snake

Classification 

Information:

Based on ranking 

from the Idaho 

Conservation 

Data Center 2002

Widespread (3) 

Intermediate (2) 

Limited (1)

Abundant (>10) 

Common (6-10) 

Uncommon (3-

5) Rare (1-2)

Photograph 

Museum 

Specimen

Techniques 

Employed: 

Visual 

Encounters 

Road Driving 

Funnel Traps 

Incidental 

Observation 

Contributed 

Observation

Life Stages: 

Juveniles 

Adults

S(BLM)= 

Sensitive Species

* Based on this 

survey

* Based on this 

survey

SC(IDFG)= 

Species of 

Special Concern

Found in: 

3 locations 

2 locations 

1 location

>10 individuals 

6-10 individuals 

3-5 individuals 

1-2 individuals
19

Table 7. Bear Paw Battlefield amphibian and reptile species summary table. This table provides concise 

information about potential and observed amphibian and reptile species with their corresponding legal 

status, and summarizes the study results by distribution, estimated abundance, type of voucher taken, 

successful survey techniques, and the observed life stages. See Appendix B for other species that may 

occur but researchers on this project judged not likely to occur.

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name

Conserv. 

Status Distribution*

Estimated 

Abundance

* Voucher

Successful 

Sampling 

Techniques* Comments Park Status

No Confirmed 

Amphibians 

Possible 

Amphibians

Ambystoma 

tigrinum

tiger 

salamander Probably Present

Confirmed 

Reptiles

Thamnophis 

radix

plains 

garter 

snake

Limited Rare Photograph Visual 

Encounters Adult Present

Possible 

Reptiles

Coluber 

constrictor Racer Probably Present

Pituophis

catenifer

gopher 

snake Probably Present

Thamnophis 

elegans

western 

terrestrial 

garter 

snake

Probably Present

Crotalus viridis

western 

rattlesnake Probably Present

Classification 

Information:

Widespread 

(3) 

Intermediate 

(2) Limited 

(1)

Abundant 

(>10) 

Common (6-

10) 

Uncommon 

(3-5) Rare 

(1-2)

Photograph 

Museum 

Specimen

Techniques 

Employed: 

Visual 

Encounters 

Road Driving 

Funnel Traps 

Incidental 

Observation 

Contributed 

Observation

Life Stages: 

Juveniles 

Adults

* Based on 

this survey

* Based on 

this survey

Found in: 

3 locations 

2 locations 

1 location

>10 

individuals 

6-10 

individuals 

3-5 

individuals 

1-2 

individuals
20

Table 8. Dug Bar amphibian and reptile species summary table. This table provides concise information 

about potential and observed amphibian and reptile species with their corresponding legal status, and 

summarizes the study results by distribution, estimated abundance, type of voucher taken, successful 

survey techniques, and the observed life stages. See Appendix B for other species that may occur but 

researchers on this project judged not likely to occur.

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name

Conserv. 

Status Distribution*

Estimated 

Abundance* Voucher

Successful 

Sampling 

Techniques* Comments

Park 

Status

Confirmed 

Amphibians

Possible 

Amphibians

Bufo boreas

western 

toad S

Confirmed 

Reptiles

Sceloporus 

occidentalis

western 

fence lizard Widespread Uncommon Photograph

Incidental 

Observation Adult Present

Coluber 

constrictor racer Widespread Uncommon Photograph

Funnel Trap, 

Visual Encounter Adult Present

Pituophis 

catenifer

gopher 

snake Limited Rare Photograph

Incidental 

Observation Adult Present

Crotalus 

viridis

western 

rattlesnake Widespread Uncommon Photograph

Incidental 

Observation Adult Present

Possible 

Reptiles

Thamnophis 

elegans

western 

terrestrial 

garter 

snake

Classifying 

Information:

Based on 

ranking from 

the Oregon 

Natural 

Heritage 

Program 2002

Widespread (3) 

Intermediate (2) 

Limited (1)

Abundant (>10) 

Common (6-10) 

Uncommon (3-5) 

Rare (1-2)

Photograph 

Museum 

Specimen

Techniques 

Employed: Visual 

Encounters 

Road Driving 

Funnel Traps 

Incidental Observ. 

Contributed 

Observ.

Life Stages: 

Juveniles 

Adults

S= Sensitive 

Species

* Based on this 

survey

* Based on this 

survey

Found in at least: 

3 locations 

2 locations 

1 location

>10 individuals 

6-10 individuals 

3-5 individuals 

1-2 individuals
21

Mammals

Expected and Confirmed Species

A total of 34 species of non-volant mammals were expected to occur in NEPE sites. Twentyeight species were confirmed in the park, representing 82% of the expected species. 

Results at each of the 5 park sites were quite variable; therefore, they are treated separately in the 

following section. Tables 9-13 show the expected and confirmed mammal species for each 

NEPE inventory sites.

Table 9. Spalding mammal species summary table. This table provides concise information about 

potential and observed mammal species with their corresponding legal status, and summarizes the study 

results by distribution, estimated abundance, type of voucher taken, successful survey techniques, and 

the observed life stages. See Appendix B for other species that may occur, but researchers on this 

project judged not likely to occur.

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name

Conserv. 

Status Distribution*

Estimated 

Abundance* Voucher

Successful 

Sampling 

Techniques* Comments

Park 

Status

Confirmed

Sylvilagus 

nattallii

Nuttall's/ 

mountain 

cottontail Intermediate Uncommon

Incidental 

Observation Juvenile, Adult Present

Tamiasciurus 

hudsonicus red squirrel Intermediate Common Tracks/dens/scat Present

Marmota 

flaviventris

yellowbellied 

marmot Limited Rare

Incidental 

Observation Adult Present

Thomomys 

talpoides

northern 

pocket 

gopher Widespread Abundant Tracks/dens/scat Present

Castor 

canadensis

American 

beaver Intermediate Rare Tracks/dens/scat Present

Reithrodontom

ys megalotis

western 

harvest 

mouse Widespread Uncommon Trapping Juvenile, Adult Present

Peromyscus 

maniculatus deer mouse Widespread Abundant Trapping Juvenile, Adult Present

Ondatra 

zibethicus

common 

muskrat Limited Rare Tracks/dens/scat Present

Canis latrans coyote Widespread Common

Incidental 

Observation Present

Vulpes vulpes red fox Limited Rare

Contributed 

Observation Present

Procyon lotor

common 

raccoon Limited Uncommon

Incidental 

Observation Juvenile, Adult Present

Mustela vison mink Limited Rare

Incidental 

Observation Adult Present

Taxidea taxus

American 

badger Limited Rare Tracks/dens/scat Present
22

Table 9. (continued) Spalding mammal species summary table. This table provides concise information 

about potential and observed mammal species with their corresponding legal status, and summarizes the 

study results by distribution, estimated abundance, type of voucher taken, successful survey techniques, 

and the observed life stages. See Appendix B for other species that may occur, but researchers on this 

project judged not likely to occur.

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name

Conserv. 

Status Distribution*

Estimated 

Abundance* Voucher

Successful 

Sampling 

Techniques* Comments

Park 

Status

Confirmed

Lontra 

canadensis river otter SC Limited Rare

Incidental 

Observation Adult Present

Mephitis 

mephitis

striped 

skunk Limited Rare

Incidental 

Observation Adult Present

Lynx rufus bobcat Limited Rare

Contributed 

Observation Adult Present

Odocoileus 

virginianus

white-tailed 

deer Intermediate Uncommon

Incidental 

Observation Juvenile, Adult Present

Possible

Sorex vagrans

vagrant 

shrew

Neotoma 

cinerea

bushy-tailed 

woodrat

Microtis 

pennsylvanicu

s

meadow 

vole

Mustela 

frenata

long-tailed 

weasel

Cervus 

elaphus elk

Classification 

Information:

Based on 

ranking from 

the Idaho 

Conservation 

Data Center 

2002

Widespread (3) 

Intermediate 

(2) Limited (1)

Abundant (>10) 

Common (6-

10) Uncommon 

(3-5) Rare (1-2)

Photo 

Museum 

Specimen

Techniques 

Employed: 

Visual 

Encounters 

Road Driving 

Funnel Traps 

Incidental 

Observation 

Contributed 

Observation 

Tracks/dens/scat 

Trapping

Life Stages: 

Juveniles 

Adults

S(BLM)= 

Sensitive 

Species

* Based on this 

survey

* Based on this 

survey

SC(IDFG)= 

Species of 

Special 

Concern

Found in: 

3 locations 

2 locations 

1 location

>10 individuals 

6-10 individuals 

3-5 individuals 

1-2 individuals
23

Table 10. White Bird mammal species summary table. This table provides concise information about 

potential and observed mammal results by distribution, estimated abundance, type of voucher taken, 

successful survey techniques, and the observed life stages. See Appendix B for other species that may 

occur, but researchers on this project judged not likely to occur.

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name

Conservation 

Status Distribution*

Estimated 

Abundance* Voucher

Successful 

Sampling 

Techniques* Comments

Park 

Status

Confirmed

Sorex vagrans

vagrant 

shrew Limited Rare Trapping Present

Marmota 

flaviventris

yellow-bellied 

marmot Limited Uncommon

Contributed 

Observation Adult Present

Thomomys 

talpoides

northern 

pocket 

gopher Widespread Abundant Tracks/dens/scat Present

Peromyscus 

maniculatus deer mouse Widespread Abundant Trapping

Juvenile, 

Adult Present

Neotoma 

cinerea

bushy-tailed 

woodrat Widespread Abundant

Incidental 

Observation Adult Present

Canis latrans coyote Widespread Common Tracks/dens/scat Present

Taxidea taxus

american 

badger Intermediate Uncommon

Incidental 

Observation Present

Lynx rufus bobcat Limited Rare

Contributed 

Observation Adult Present

Cervus 

elaphus elk Limited Rare Photograph

Incidental 

Observation Adult Present

Odocoileus 

virginianus

white-tailed

deer Widespread Abundant

Incidental 

Observation

Juvenile, 

Adult Present

Possible

Spermophilus 

columbianus

columbian 

ground 

squirrel

Mustela 

frenata

long-tailed 

weasel

Classification 

Information:

Based on 

ranking from 

the Idaho 

Conservation 

Data Center 

2002

Widespread 

(3) 

Intermediate 

(2) Limited 

(1)

Abundant 

(>10) 

Common (6-

10) 

Uncommon 

(3-5) Rare 

(1-2)

Photograph 

Museum 

Specimen

Techniques 

Employed: 

Visual 

Encounters 

Road Driving 

Funnel Traps 

Incidental 

Observation 

Contributed 

Observation 

Tracks/dens/scat 

Trapping

Life 

Stages: 

Juveniles 

Adults

S(BLM)= 

Sensitive 

Species

* Based on 

this survey

* Based on 

this survey

SC(IDFG)= 

Species of 

Special 

Concern

Found in: 

3 locations 

2 locations 

1 location

>10 

individuals 

6-10 

individuals 

3-5 

individuals 

1-2 indiv.
24

Table 11. Heart of the Monster mammal species summary table. This table provides concise information 

about potential and observed mammal species with their corresponding legal status, and summarizes the 

study results by distribution, estimated abundance, type of voucher taken, successful survey techniques, 

and the observed life stages. See Appendix B for other species that may occur, but researchers on this 

project judged not likely to occur.

Scientific Name

Common 

Name

Conserv. 

Status Distribution*

Estimated 

Abundance* Voucher

Successful 

Sampling 

Techniques* Comments

Park 

Status

Confirmed

Sorex vagrans vagrant 

shrew

Limited Rare Trapping Present

Thomomys 

talpoides

northern 

pocket 

gopher Widespread Abundant

Visual 

Encounter Present

Castor 

canadensis

american 

beaver

Intermediate Rare

Tracks/dens/s

cat Present

Reithrodontomys 

megalotis

western 

harvest 

mouse Limited Rare Trapping Adult Present

Peromyscus 

maniculatus

deer 

mouse Widespread Common Trapping

Juvenile, 

Adult Present

Clethrionomys 

gapperi

southern 

redbacked 

vole Limited Rare

Incidental 

Observation Adult Present

Microtus 

longicaudus

longtailed 

vole Intermediate Rare Trapping Adult Present

Microtus 

pennsylvanicus

meadow 

vole Widespread Uncommon Trapping

Juvenile, 

Adult Present

Ondatra 

zibethicus

common 

muskrat Limited Rare

Visual 

Encounter Adult Present

Canis latrans coyote

Intermediate Uncommon

Visual 

Encounter Present

Procyon lotor

common 

raccoon Limited Rare

Tracks/dens/s

cat Adult Present

Mustela frenata longtailed 

weasel Limited

Tracks/dens/s

cat Present

Mustela vison mink

Limited

Tracks/dens/s

cat Present

Odocoileus 

hemionus

mule 

deer Limited Rare

Incidental 

Observation Adult Present

Odocoileus 

virginianus

whitetailed 

deer Limited Uncommon

Incidental 

Observation

Juvenile, 

Adult Present
25

Table 11. (continued) Heart of the Monster mammal species summary table. This table provides concise 

information about potential and observed mammal species with their corresponding legal status, and 

summarizes the study results by distribution, estimated abundance, type of voucher taken, successful 

survey techniques, and the observed life stages.

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name

Conserv. 

Status

Distribution

*

Estimated 

Abundance* Voucher

Successful

Sampling 

Techniques* Comments Park Status

Possible

Sorex cinereus

masked 

shrew

Lepus 

americanus

snowshoe 

hare

Tamias 

amoenus

yellow 

pine 

chipmunk

Spermophilus 

columbianus

Columbian 

ground 

squirrel

Tamiasciurus 

hudsonicus

red 

squirrel

Lontra 

canadensis river otter

Mephitis 

mephitis

striped 

skunk

Classification 

Information:

Based on 

ranking 

from the 

Idaho 

Conservati

on Data 

Center 

2002

Widespread 

(3) 

Intermediate 

(2) Limited 

(1)

Abundant 

(>10) 

Common (6-

10) 

Uncommon 

(3-5) Rare (1-

2)

Photogra

ph 

Museum 

Specimen

Techniques 

Employed: 

Visual 

Encounters 

Road Driving 

Funnel Traps 

Incidental 

Observation 

Contributed 

Observation 

Tracks/dens/s

cat 

Trapping

Life Stages: 

Juveniles 

Adults

S(BLM)= 

Sensitive 

Species

* Based on 

this survey

* Based on 

this survey

SC(IDFG)= 

Species of 

Special 

Concern

Found in: 

3 locations 

2 locations 

1 location

>10 

individuals 

6-10 

individuals 

3-5 

individuals 

1-2 

individuals
26

Table 12. Bear Paw mammal species summary table. This table provides concise information about 

potential and observed mammal species with their corresponding legal status, and summarizes the study 

results by distribution, estimated abundance, type of Voucher taken, successful survey techniques, and 

the observed life stages. See Appendix B for other species that may occur.

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name

Conserv. 

Status Distribution*

Estimated 

Abundance* Voucher

Successful 

Sampling 

Techniques* Comments

Park 

Status

Confirmed

Lepus 

townsendii

white-tailed jack 

rabbit Widespread Uncommon Skull Road Driving Adult Present

Spermophilu

s richardsonii

Richardson's 

ground squirrel Widespread Abundant Road Driving, 

Trapping

Juveniles, 

Adults Present

Peromyscus 

maniculatus deer mouse Widespread Abundant Trapping Juveniles, 

Adults Present

Neotoma 

cinerea

bushy-tailed 

woodrat

Limited Uncommon Incidental 

Observation Present

Microtus 

pennsylvanic

us meadow vole

Widespread Uncommon Trapping Juveniles, 

Adults Present

Canis latrans coyote

Intermediate Abundant No

Visual 

Encounters, 

Incidental 

Observation

Present

Vulpes 

vulpes red fox Limited Track/dens/scat Present

Taxidea 

taxus

american 

badger Limited Track/dens/scat Present

Mephitis 

mephitis striped skunk Limited Uncommon Skull Incidental Observation Adult Present

Odocoileus 

hemionus mule deer Intermediate Common Incidental Observation Adult Present

Odocoileus 

virginianus

white-tailed 

deer Intermediate Common Incidental Observation Adult Present

Antilocapra 

americana pronghorn

Widespread Abundant No

Visual 

Encounters, 

Incidental 

Observation

Juveniles, 

Adults Present

Possible

Thomomys 

talpoides

northern pocket 

gopher

Lemmiscus 

curtatus sagebrush vole

Classifying 

Information:

Widespread 

(3) 

Intermediate 

(2) Limited 

(1)

Abundant (>10) 

Common (6-10) 

Uncommon (3-5) 

Rare (1-2)

Photo 

Museum 

Specimen

Techniques Employed: Visual 

Encounters Road Driving 

Funnel Traps 

Incidental Observation 

Contributed Observation 

Tracks/dens/scat 

Trapping

Life 

Stages: 

Juveniles 

Adults

* Based on 

this survey

* Based on this 

survey

Found in: 

3 locations 

2 locations 

1 location

>10 individuals 

6-10 individuals 

3-5 individuals 

1-2 individuals
27

Table 13. Dug Bar mammal species summary table. This table provides concise information about 

potential and observed species with their corresponding legal status, and summarizes the study results 

by distribution, estimated abundance, type of voucher taken, successful survey techniques, and the 

observed life stages. See Appendix B for other species that may occur, but researchers on this project 

judged not likely to occur.

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name

Conserv. 

Status Distribution*

Estimated 

Abundance* Voucher

Successful 

Sampling 

Techniques* Comments

Park 

Status

Confirmed

Peromyscus 

maniculatus

deer 

mouse Intermediate Rare Trapping Adult Present

Canis latrans coyote Intermediate Tracks/dens/scat Present

Odocoileus 

hemionus

mule deer

Limited Uncommon

Visual 

Observation Juvenile, Adult Present

Ovis 

canadensis

bighorn 

sheep S Limited Uncommon

Visual 

Observation Juvenile, Adult Present

Possible

Marmota 

flaviventris

yellowbellied 

marmot

Thomomys 

talpoides

northern 

pocket 

gopher

Neotoma 

cinerea

bushytailed 

woodrat

Classifying 

Information:

Based on 

ranking 

from the 

Oregon 

Natural 

Heritage 

Program 

2002

Widespread (3) 

Intermediate (2) 

Limited (1)

Abundant (>10) 

Common (6-10) 

Uncommon (3-

5) Rare (1-2)

Photograph 

Museum 

Specimen

Techniques 

Employed: 

Visual 

Encounters 

Road Driving 

Funnel Traps 

Incidental 

Observation 

Contributed 

Observation 

Tracks/dens/scat 

Trapping

Life Stages: 

Juveniles 

Adults

S= 

Sensitive 

Species

* Based on this 

survey

* Based on this 

survey

Found in: 

3 locations 

2 locations 

1 location

>10 individuals 

6-10 individuals 

3-5 individuals 

1-2 individuals
28

Tables 14 and 15 show the number of amphibian, reptile, and mammal species detected at each 

site.

Table 14. Number of amphibian and reptile species detected at each site through sign (tracks, den sites, 

scat, calls, etc.), trapping, and/or direct observation.

Spalding White Bird Kamiah Bear Paw Dug Bar 

Amphibians western toad 100 (est. #) 1000 (est. #)

Pacific 

treefrog 22

long-toed 

salamander 200 (est. #)

bullfrog 1 1000 (est. #)

Reptiles racer (genus) 1 1 1 4

western 

terrestrial 

garter snake 1 3 3

western 

rattlesnake 1 2 3

gopher snake 2 1 1

plains garter 

snake 1

ringneck 

snake 2

western fence 

lizard 5
29

Table 15. Number of mammal species detected at each site through sign (tracks, den sites, scat, calls, 

etc.), trapping, and/or direct observation. Species in bold were most frequently detected.

Spalding White Bird Kamiah Bear Paw Dug Bar Total #

Mammals American badger sign sign sign 3

American beaver sign sign 2

bobcat

direct 

observation

direct 

observation 1

bushy-tailed 

woodrat

direct 

observation sign 1

common muskrat sign sign

2

common raccoon

direct 

observation sign

2

coyote sign 

direct 

observation

direct 

observation sign sign 5

deer mouse 18 32 8 31 2 5

elk

direct 

observation 1

least weasel sign

1

long-tailed vole 2 1

meadow vole 4 11

2

mink

direct 

observation

direct 

observation 2

mule deer

direct 

observation

direct 

observation

direct 

observation 3

northern pocket 

gopher

direct 

observation sign sign

3

northern river otter

direct 

observation 1

Nuttall's/mountain 

cottontail

direct 

observation

1

pronhorn antelope

direct 

observation 1

red fox

direct 

observation sign 2

red squirrel sign 1

richardson's 

ground squirrel 4 1

southern redbacked vole 1 1

striped skunk

direct 

observation sign 2

vargrant shrew 1 1 2

western harvest 

mouse 4 1 2

white-tailed deer

direct 

observation

direct 

observation

direct 

observation

direct 

observation 4

white-tailed jack 

rabbit

direct 

observation 1

yellow-bellied 

marmot sign 

direct 

observation 2

31

Results by Site

Spalding

There were six small mammal transects deployed and four incidental observations of various 

species made at this site during the 2002 inventory (Figure 2). This effort resulted in the 

documentation of 22 (1 amphibian, 4 reptiles, and 17 mammals) of the 28 potentially occurring 

species in the Spalding site (Tables 4 and 9). There were observations of two species of concern 

and/or sensitive species detected at Spalding. Lapwai Creek had about 100 western toad (Bufo 

boreas) tadpoles present during the second sampling session in August. There was a dried up

carcass of an adult toad detected at the Spalding site near a conifer stand by the railroad tracks on 

the east end of the park, but no other evidence of adult individuals was detected. The river otter 

(Lontra canadensis) was observed swimming in the Clearwater River, which flows along the 

north end of the park boundary. The western harvest mouse (Reithrodontomys megalotis) was 

detected at this site and, while it is not a species of concern, is noteworthy because its presence at 

Spalding represents a modest range extension. Photo documentation of Lapwai Creek and the 

habitat along the Clearwater River are shown in Appendix D, representative photo 1.

Figure 2. Sherman live trap transect locations and reptile and amphibian incidental observations during 

the 2002 vertebrate inventory at Spalding, Idaho.
32

White Bird Battlefield 

There were four small mammal transects and three wire funnel traps deployed at this site. Eight 

incidental observations of amphibians and reptiles were also documented (Figure 3). Nineteen (4 

amphibians, 5 reptiles, and 10 mammals) of 23 potentially occurring species were detected 

within the White Bird Battlefield in 2002 (Tables 5 and 10). There were observations of two 

species of concern and/or sensitive species, and one observation of an exotic species detected at 

Swartz Pond. The pond had both tadpole and adult lifestages of the western toad present during 

early sampling in May. The number of tadpoles was extremely abundant (>1000) and voucher 

samples were collected. The ringneck snake (Diadophis punctatus) is a critically imperiled 

species of concern for the state of Idaho, and the Bureau of Land Management lists it as a 

sensitive species. Two juvenile snakes were found at the same location during this sampling 

session, but were detected on two separate occasions. Photographs were taken for voucher 

records that documented both observations. Swartz Pond had one large adult bullfrog (Rana 

catebeiana) present. There seemed to be some sort of bacterial growth on the pupil lens of the 

frog, the activity level of the frog was minimal, and its overall health was poor. The frog was not 

detected during later sampling of Swartz Pond in August. This pond also proved to be a popular 

breeding site for long-toed salamanders (Ambystoma macrodactylum) and adults were 

documented residing at this site for the duration of the summer.

Figure 3. Trapping locations and incidental observations of reptiles and amphibians in the White Bird 

Battlefield during the 2002 inventory.
33

Heart of the Monster

There were four small mammal transects and three wire funnel traps deployed at this site, and 

three incidental observations of amphibians and reptiles were documented (Figure 4). There were 

18 (1 amphibian, 2 reptiles, and 15 mammals) of the 27 potentially occurring species detected 

within the Heart of the Monster site in 2002 (Tables 6 and 11). A racer (Coluber constrictor) was 

detected but a GPS signal was unavailable for records. The Kamiah Pond had the highest 

abundance of bullfrogs throughout the entire study area (Figure 4). This exotic species is a 

successful, aggressive, territorial, and competitive amphibian. The large amount of tadpoles, 

metamorphs, juveniles, and adults present at the pond may explain the lack of other amphibian 

species. Management action is needed to eradicate this species, in order to increase species 

richness of amphibians. A dead western terrestrial garter snake (Thamnophis elegans) found near 

Kamiah Pond had distinct canine puncture holes the size of a small carnivore. During the surveys 

of this site, it was common to see several resident feral cats chasing birds and other animals 

within the park. A western harvest mouse was captured here in August and this location 

represents a significant range extension for this species.

Figure 4. Trap locations and herpetofauna incidental observations during the 2002 inventory at Heart of 

the Monster (Kamiah), Nez Perce National Historical Site.
34

Bear Paw Battlefield

There were seven small mammal transects and two pitfall traps deployed at this site, and only 

one incidental observation of a reptile documented (Figure 5). During 2002 there were 13 (0 

amphibians, 1 reptile, and 12 mammals) of the 20 potentially occurring species detected within 

the Bear Paw Battlefield (Tables 7-12). One prairie garter snake (Thamnophis radix) was found 

at the battlefield while conducting the second survey session in early July. The snake was found 

near the standing pools of water in Snake Creek.

Figure 5. Trap and herpetofauna locations during the 2002 inventory of Bear Paw Battlefield, Nez Perce 

National Historical Park.

Dug Bar Historic Site

There were five small mammal transects, five wire funnel traps, and two pitfall traps deployed at 

this site (Figure 6). No incidental observations of amphibians were documented directly at Dug 

Bar. There were 8 (0 amphibians, 4 reptiles, and 4 mammals) of the 13 potentially occurring 

species detected within the Dug Bar site (Tables 8 and13). All four species of reptiles confirmed 

were detected through trapping and incidental observations (Figure 6). Dug Bar had the highest 

overall abundance of reptiles throughout the study (Table 14). The two species with the highest 

occurrence were the racer and the western fence lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis). Racers were 

detected on several occasions, and were not found in close proximity to water. Five racer skin 

sheds were detected within clusters of medium sized rocks on a south-facing talus slope, which 
35

may be a den site. There were five western fence lizards detected at Dug Bar during the survey. 

Throughout the sampling session these lizards were present on rocks and in trees along the Snake 

River. There were different size and color phases observed at this site, which were photographed 

for documentation.

Figure 6. Trap locations in Dug Bar during the 2002 Nez Perce National Historical Park vertebrate 

inventory.

Bats

Although the 2002 Nez Perce National Historical Park inventory did not focus on confirming bat 

species, bat activity was noted and several roost sites were investigated incidental to other 

inventory activities. Night surveys were conducted at each of the inventory sampling sites for the 

duration of each sampling session in 2002. This resulted in the discovery of four sites where bat 

species were present. Bats were flying around feeding near the bridge over Lapwai Creek 

(Spalding) at about 9:30 pm in the August survey. Swartz Pond (White Bird) had bat species 

observed overhead at about 8:00 pm in the August survey. The weather during the early surveys 

of Bear Paw was extremely cold, but a little brown bat (Myotis lucifugus) was identified under a 

bridge about 2.4 km (1.5 mi) from the battlefield. The McBeth House, 0.5 miles from the Heart 

of the Monster, had approximately 50-75 individual bats detected and photographed. These bats 

resembled Townsend’s big-eared bats (Corynorhinus townsendii) but a positive identification 

was not obtained. Bat surveys have never been conducted in any of the five Nez Perce National 
36

Historical Park sites included in the 2002 inventory, but enough activity was observed that a 

future bat inventory is warranted.

Abundance

The species with the highest measurable relative abundance during this survey were the western 

toad, racer, western terrestrial garter snake, coyote (Canis latrans), and the deer mouse 

(Peromyscus maniculatus). The number of western toads was estimated when tadpoles were 

present to total at least 1000 individuals (Table 14). The racer and western terrestrial garter snake 

both had an abundance of seven individuals detected within the survey (Table 14). The mammal 

species were difficult to establish actual relative abundance of animals detected through 

numbers. After recording the presence of each mammal species at a given location, the species 

were then examined for occurrence throughout all of the Nez Perce sites and the results are 

shown in Table 15.
37

Discussion

The Nez Perce National Historical Park consists of many small and widely separated sites, each 

with their own management concerns and challenges. Management strategies should be made 

site specific rather than park-wide. Site-specific biological resource concerns should be 

prioritized so that the most critical problems are addressed first. From a vertebrate resource 

perspective, priority ranking should consider confirmed species of concern, their population 

status, and a variety of possible threats, such as public visitation and exotic species impacts. The 

presence of exotic species, such as bullfrogs, probably poses the most pressing threat to many 

native herpetofauna in the park. Exotic weedy vegetation also poses a significant threat to both 

herpetofauna and mammals. An additional factor to consider in prioritizing management 

strategies is that of feasibility. Overly expensive and disruptive management strategies that have 

a low probability of success should be avoided. While addressing threats to confirm park species 

is most important, several unique and potentially vulnerable species that were not confirmed in 

the 2002 inventory deserve further attention. Nez Perce National Historical Park staff is an 

invaluable resource in this regard. Park staff is “on the ground” and intimately familiar with the 

park, making them the best choice to fill in the remaining gaps in “probably present” species in 

the park. Every effort should be made to recruit park staff to continue searching for probably 

present species. Finally, the vital-signs monitoring phase of the I&M project will provide a 

crucial source of funding, expertise, and momentum for sustained management and conservation 

efforts for biological resources in the park in the future. The following sections address more 

specific management concerns for each of the five sites included in the 2002 inventory.

Management Recommendations

Spalding

Several detected and undetected species at this site are of management concern. Lapwai Creek 

provides the only suitable late summer breeding habitat for western toads, and preservation of 

future populations of this sensitive species relies on the persistence of proper site characteristics.

This site had six (1 amphibian, 5 mammal) species that could possibly occur that were not 

detected (Tables 4 and 9). The detection rate for amphibians and mammals were lower than 

anticipated, and further searching should easily increase the number of documented species at 

this site. The Columbia spotted frog (Rana lutieventris) is most likely present within the park, 

although detection of this species was not confirmed. While doing early spring sampling along 

the Clearwater River, a frog was seen jumping into a pool of water. A positive identification of 

this frog was not made but, based on habitat, time of year, and gestalt observation, it seems 

possible that this was a spotted frog. The overflow pools that form along the Clearwater River 

should be thoroughly searched in the spring using visual encounter surveys in order to detect this 

species. As far as mammal species are concerned, there are several species that are possibly 

present yet were not detected during the 2002 survey. Elk (Cervus elaphus) have been seen in the 

area and may migrate through the park during fall, winter, and spring. Early winter may be an 

opportune time for detection of this species. For the remainder of the possibly-occurring 

mammal species, an intensive trapping session and a winter track survey is suggested.
38

White Bird Battlefield

This site had both exotic and native species present in 2002. Although there was only a single 

bullfrog detected during the survey, this site should be monitored for increased bullfrog 

presence. The species richness and diversity at this site was the highest of any location in the 

2002 Nez Perce National Historical Park inventory. If bullfrogs are only beginning to encroach 

into the site, it may be possible to stop invasion before populations of native herpetofauna are 

impacted. The western toad population seemed to be abundant at this site, and monitoring the 

number of egg masses and tadpole production in the future is recommended. Further surveys of 

reptiles may confirm the common garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis), whose habitat 

requirements resemble characteristics present in the site (Appendix B). The detection of other 

mammal species may be increased if winter surveys are conducted.

Heart of the Monster

This site is important because of the large bullfrog population present at Kamiah Pond. This 

species may overwinter in a single locality and reproductive success appears to be high. 

Considering these factors, an attempt should be made to prevent the species from spreading into 

the surrounding wetlands. Electroshocking of individuals using backpack shockers could be an 

effective way of collecting large quantities of bullfrogs. This eradication method would take 

several visits to the pond, but would certainly be beneficial for native amphibians. The other 

management concern at Heart of the Monster is the presence of feral cats. These animals kill 

avian and reptile species native to the park and an attempt should be made to eliminate them 

from the park.

Bear Paw Battlefield

There were several possibly present species at this site. The tiger salamander (Ambystoma 

trigrinum), racer (Coluber constrictor), gopher snake (Pituophis catenifer), and sagebrush vole 

(Lemniscus curtatus) are species that were expected to occur at Bear Paw Battlefield. The tiger 

salamander and the gopher snake have been observed within five miles of the park, and future 

detection of this species in the park is promising. Early summer and fall would be ideal times to 

detect the tiger salamander due to breeding and life history characteristics. The habitat and range 

requirements for the racer and the sagebrush vole are present, but weather conditions during both 

sampling sessions in 2002 were not favorable for detection of these species. Future sampling of 

Snake Creek should be made during periods of increased water flow and when air temperatures 

are around 20-30° C.

Dug Bar

This site is not favorable for amphibian populations, due to its location and temperature, but the 

western toad may be present. This species was found late at night on the road outside of the site 

boundary, and a population may exist in or near the park (Figure 7). Since this species is mostly 

nocturnal, night surveys should be conducted during warm months.
39

Figure 7. Incidental observations of reptiles and amphibians in the Dug Bar during the 2002 inventory of 

Nez Perce National Historical Park. 

41

Literature Cited

Corkran, C. C., and C. Thoms. 1996. Amphibians of Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia. 

Lone Pine Publishing, Canada.

Cowardin, L. M., V. Carter, F. C. Golet, and E. T. LaRoe. 1979. Classification of wetlands and 

feepwater habitats of the United States. United States Fish and Wildlife Service Bulletin 

FWS/OBS 79/31.

Csuti, B., T. A. O’Neil, M. M. Shaughnessy, E. P. Gaines, and J. C. Hak. 2001. Atlas of Oregon 

wildlife. Oregon State University Press, OR. 

Digital Atlas of Idaho. 2000. Digital atlas of Idaho: Idaho’s natural history online. Idaho 

Museum of Natural History. Idaho State University, Pocatello, Idaho available from 

(http://imnh.isu.edu/digitalatlas). Accessed 23 March 2002.

Dixon, R., and L. K. Garrett. 2009. Bird inventories of Big Hole National Battlefield, Nez Perce

National Historic Park, and Whitman Mission National Historical Site 2005. Natural

Resource Report NPS/UCBN/NRR—2009/125. National Park Service, Fort Collins, CO.

Fisher, C., D. Pattie, T. Hartson. 2000. Mammals of the Rocky Mountains. Lone Pine Publishing, 

Canada. 

Fisher, F. B, J. C. Winne, M. M. Thornton, T. P. Tady, Z. Ma, M. M. Hart, and R. L. Redmond. 

1998. Montana Gap Analysis Project. Montana Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, MT. 

Groves, C. R., B. Butterfield, A. Lippincott, B. Csuti, and J. M. Scott. 1997. Atlas of Idaho's 

wildlife. Idaho Department of Fish and Game, The Nature Conservancy, & Idaho Gap 

Analysis Project, joint publishers.

Homer, C. G., R. D. Ramsey, T. C. Edwards Jr., and A. Falconer. 1997. Landscape cover-type 

modeling using a multiscene thematic mapper mosaic. Photogrammetric Engineering and 

Remote Sensing 63:59-67.

Idaho State Climate Services. 2003. Idaho 1971-2000 normals. Department of Biological and 

Agricultural Engineering, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID available from 

(http://snow.ag.uidaho.edu/2000_normals/index.html). Accessed 25 March 2003

ITIS. 2003. Integrated taxonomic information system on-line database system. U.S. Department 

of Agriculture available from (http://www.itis.usda.gov.). Accessed 10 January 2003. 

Monello, R. J. and G. R. Wright. 1998. Exotic pest plant inventory, mapping, and priorities for 

control in parks in the Pacific Northwest, and initial bird and small mammal survey results 

for parks in the Pacific Northwest. USGS Idaho Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research 

Unit, University of Idaho. Moscow, ID. 
42

Olson, D. H., W. P. Leonard, R. B. Bury. 1997. Sampling amphibians in lentic habitats: methods 

and approaches for the Pacific Northwest. Society for Northwestern Vertebrate Biology, WA. 

Redmond, R. L., Z. Ma, T. P. Tady, J. C. Winne, J. Schumacher, J. Troutwine, and S. W. 

Holloway. 1996. Mapping existing vegetation and land cover across western Montana and 

northern Idaho. Wildlife Spatial Analysis Laboratory, Missoula, MT.

Shive, J. P. and C. R. Peterson. 2001. Herpetological inventory of the City of Rocks National 

Reserve. Herpetology Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, Idaho State 

University. Pocatello, ID. 

St. John, A. D. 2002. Reptiles of the northwest. Lone Pine Publishing, Canada.

Storm, R. M. and W. P. Leonard. 1995. Reptiles of Washington and Oregon. Seattle Audubon 

Society, WA. 

Western Regional Climate Center. 2003. Montana climate summaries. Desert Research Institute, 

Reno, NV available from (http://www.wrcc.dri.edu/summary/climsmmt.html). Accessed 26 

March 2004.

Whitaker, J. O. 1998. National Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Mammals. 

Alfred A. Knopf, NY.

Wright, G. R., L. Garrett, and D. Foster. Unpublished. A study plan to inventory vascular plants 

and vertebrates in NPS units in the northern semi-arid network. University of Idaho 

Department of Fish and Wildlife. Moscow, ID.
43

Appendix A. Key to the NPSpecies codes

Codes used in the following tables summarizing the status of confirmed and expected species of 

mammals, reptiles, and amphibians in the Nez Perce National Historical Park.

PARK STATUS

(P) Present:

Species occurrence in park is documented and assumed to be extant.

(H) Historic:

Species historical occurrence in the park is documented, but recent investigations indicate that the species is 

now probably absent.

(PP) Probably Present:

Park is within species range and contains appropriate habitat. Documented occurrences of the species in the 

adjoining region of the park give reason to suspect that it probably occurs within the park. The degree of 

probability may vary within this category, including species that range from common to rare.

(E) Encroaching

The species is not documented in the park, but is documented as being adjacent to the park and has potential to 

occur in the park.

(U) Unconfirmed:

Included for the park based on weak (unconfirmed) record or no evidence, giving minimal indication of the 

species occurrence in the park.

(FR) False Report:

Species previously reported to occur within the park, but current evidence indicates that the report was based 

on a misidentification, a taxonomic concept no longer accepted, or some other similar problem of 

interpretation.

SPECIES ABUNDANCE

(A) Abundant:

May be seen daily, in suitable habitat and season, and counted in relatively large numbers.

(C) Common:

May be seen daily, in suitable habitat and season, but not in large numbers. 

(U) Uncommon:

Likely to be seen monthly in appropriate season/habitat. May be locally common.

(R) Rare:

Present, but usually seen only a few times each year.

(O) Occasional:

Occurs in the park at least once every few years, but not necessarily every year. Applicable to animals only.

(UNK) Unknown:

Abundance unknown.

RESIDENCY 

(B) Breeder:

Population reproduces in the park.

(R) Resident:

A significant population is maintained in the park for more than two months each year, but it is not known to 

breed there.

(M) Migratory:

Migratory species that occurs in park approximately two months or less each year and does not breed there.

(V) Vagrant:

Park is outside of the species usual range.
44

(UNK) Unknown:

Residency status in park is unknown.

SPECIES NATIVITY

(N) Native:

The species is native to the park (either endemic or indigenous), or if the Park Status is Probably Present as 

defined above, the species would be native to the park if it were eventually confirmed in the park.

(E) Non-Native (EXOTIC):

The species is not native to the park (neither endemic nor indigenous), or if the Park Status is Probably Present

as defined above, the species would not be native to the park if it were eventually confirmed in the park. 

Persistent plant populations (as defined below) that reproduce are also considered non-native.

(UNK) Unknown:

Nativity classification in park is unknown.

SPECIES OF MANAGEMENT PRIORITY

(Y) YES or (N) NO

SPECIES OF EXPLOITATION CONCERN

(Y) YES or (N) NO
45

Table A-1. Summary of NPSpecies Codes for potentially occurring amphibian and reptile species at the 

Nez Perce National Historical Park (Spalding).

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name

Park 

Status Abundance Residency Nativity

Management 

Priority

Exploitation 

Concern

Bufo boreas

western 

toad Present Rare Breeder Native Yes No

Rana 

lutieventris

Columbia 

spotted 

frog

Probably 

Present

Coluber 

constrictor racer

Present Common Breeder Native No No

Pituophis 

catenifer

gopher 

snake Present Abundant Breeder Native No No

Thamnophis 

elegans

western 

terrestrial 

garter 

snake Present Abundant Breeder Native No No

Crotalus 

viridis

western 

rattlesnake Present Rare Resident Native No No
46

Table A-2. Summary of NPSpecies Codes for potentially occurring mammal species at 

Spalding.

Scientific Name

Common 

Name Park Status Abundance Residency Nativity

Management 

Priority

Exploitation 

Concern

Sorex vagrans

vagrant 

shrew

Probably 

Present

Sylvilagus nattallii

Nuttall's/ 

mountain 

cottontail Present Common Breeder Native No No

Tamiasciurus 

hudsonicus red squirrel Present Abundant Breeder Native No No

Marmota flaviventris

yellowbellied 

marmot Present Uncommon Unknown Native No No

Thomomys 

talpoides

northern 

pocket 

gopher Present Abundant Breeder Native No No

Castor canadensis

american 

beaver Present Common Rare Native No No

Reithrodontomys 

megalotis

western 

harvest 

mouse Present Uncommon Breeder Native No No

Peromyscus 

maniculatus

deer 

mouse Present Abundant Breeder Native No No

Neotoma cinerea

bushytailed 

woodrat

Probably 

Present

Microtis 

pennsylvanicus

meadow 

vole

Probably 

Present

Ondatra zibethicus muskrat Present Common Unknown Native No No

Canis latrans coyote Present Common Unknown Native No No

Vulpes vulpes red fox Present Rare Unknown Native No No

Procyon lotor

common 

raccoon Present Uncommon Unknown Native No No

Mustela frenata

long-tailed 

weasel

Probably 

Present

Mustela vison mink Present Common Rare Native No No

Taxidea taxus

American 

badger Present Uncommon Unknown Native No No
47

Table A-2. (Continued) Summary of NPSpecies Codes for potentially occurring mammal species at 

Spalding.

Scientific Name

Common 

Name Park Status Abundance Residency Nativity

Management 

Priority

Exploitation 

Concern

Lontra canadensis river otter Present Uncommon Migratory Native No No

Mephitis mephitis

striped 

skunk Present Common Rare Native No No

Lynx rufus bobcat Present Rare Migratory Native No No

Cervus elaphus elk

Probably 

Present

Odocoileus 

virginianus

white-tailed 

deer Present Common Migratory Native No No
48

Table A-3. Summary of NPSpecies Codes for potentially occurring amphibian and reptile species at 

White Bird National Historic Battlefield.

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name Park Status Abundance Residency Nativity

Management 

Priority

Exploitation 

Concern

Ambystoma 

macrodactylum

long-toed 

salamander Present Abundant Breeder Native No No

Bufo boreas

western 

toad Present Uncommon Breeder Native Yes No

Hyla regilla

Pacific 

treefrog Present Common Breeder Native No No

Rana 

lutieventris

Columbia 

spotted 

frog

Probably 

Present

Rana 

catebeiana bullfrog Present Common Unknown Exotic Yes No

Diadophis 

puncatus

ringneck 

snake Present Rare Breeder Native Yes No

Coluber 

constrictor racer Present Common Breeder Native No No

Pituophis 

catenifer

gopher 

snake Present Common Breeder Native No No

Thamnophis 

sirtalis

common 

garter 

snake

Probably 

Present

Thamnophis 

elegans

western 

terrestrial 

garter 

snake Present Common Breeder Native No No

Crotalus viridis

western 

rattlesnake Present Abundant Breeder Native No No
49

Table A-4. Summary of NPSpecies Codes for potentially occurring mammal species at White Bird 

National Historic Battlefield.

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name

Park 

Status Abundance Residency Nativity

Management 

Priority

Exploitation 

Concern

Sorex 

vagrans vagrant shrew Present Rare Unknown Native No No

Spermophilus 

columbianus

Columbian 

ground 

squirrel

Probably 

Present

Marmota 

flaviventris

yellow-bellied 

marmot Present Uncommon Unknown Native No No

Thomomys 

talpoides

northern 

pocket gopher Present Common Breeder Native No No

Peromyscus 

maniculatus deer mouse Present Abundant Breeder Native No No

Neotoma 

cinerea

bushy-tailed 

woodrat Present Abundant Breeder Native No No

Canis latrans coyote Present Abundant Breeder Native No No

Mustela 

frenata

long-tailed 

weasel

Probably 

Present

Taxidea taxus

American 

badger Present Unknown Unknown Native No No

Lynx rufus bobcat Present Rare Unknown Native No No

Cervus 

elaphus elk Present Abundant Migratory Native No No

Odocoileus 

virginianus

white-tailed 

deer Present Abundant Breeder Native No No
50

Table A-5. Summary of NPSpecies Codes for potentially occurring amphibian and reptile species at Heart 

of the Monster (East Kamiah).

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name

Park 

Status Abundance Residency Nativity

Management 

Priority

Exploitation 

Concern

Rana 

catesbeiana bullfrog Present Abundant Breeder Exotic Yes No

Coluber 

constrictor racer Present Common Resident Native No No

Pituophis 

melanoleucus

gopher 

snake

Probably 

Present

Thamnophis 

sirtalis

common 

garter 

snake

Probably 

Present

Thamnophis 

elegans

western 

terrestrial 

garter 

snake Present Abundant Breeder Native No No
51

Table A-6. Summary of NPSpecies Codes for potentially occurring mammal species at Heart of the 

Monster (East Kamiah).

Scientific Name Common 

Name

Park 

Status Abundance Residency Nativity

Management 

Priority

Exploitation 

Concern

Sorex vagrans vagrant shrew Present Uncommon Breeder Native No No

Sorex cinereus

masked 

shrew

Probably 

Present

Lepus americanus

snowshoe 

hare

Probably 

Present

Tamias amoenus

yellow pine 

chipmunk

Probably 

Present

Spermophilus 

columbianus

Columbian 

ground 

squirrel

Probably 

Present

Tamiasciurus 

hudsonicus red squirrel

Probably 

Present

Thomomys talpoides

northern 

pocket gopher Present Abundant Breeder Native No No

Castor canadensis

American 

beaver Present Common Unknown Native No No

Reithrodontomys 

megalotis

western 

harvest 

mouse Present Common Breeder Native No No

Peromyscus 

maniculatus deer mouse Present Abundant Breeder Native No No

Clethrionomys 

gapperi

southern redbacked vole Present Abundant Breeder Native No No

Microtus 

longicaudus

long-tailed 

vole Present Common Breeder Native No No

Microtus 

pennsylvanicus meadow vole Present Common Breeder Native No No

Ondatra zibethicus

common 

muskrat Present Common Unknown Native No No

Canis latrans coyote Present Abundant Rare Native No No

Procyon lotor

common 

raccoon Present Abundant Resident Exotic No No

Mustela frenata

long-tailed 

weasel Present Uncommon Migratory Native No No

Mustela vison

American 

mink Present Uncommon Unknown Native No No

Lontra canadensis river otter

Probably 

Present

Mephitis mephitis striped skunk

Probably 

Present

Odocoileus 

hemionus mule deer Present Common Migratory Native No No

Odocoileus 

virginianus

white-tailed 

deer Present Common Migratory Native No No
52

Table A-7. Summary of NPSpecies Codes for potentially occurring amphibian and reptile species at Bear 

Paw National Historic Battlefield.

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name

Park 

Status Abundance Residency Nativity

Management 

Priority

Exploitation 

Concern

Ambystoma 

tigrinum

tiger 

salamander

Probably 

Present

Coluber 

constrictor racer

Probably 

Present

Pituophis 

catenifer gopher snake 

Probably 

Present

Thamnophis 

elegans

western 

terrestrial 

garter snake

Probably 

Present

Thamnophis 

radix

plains garter 

snake Present Uncommon Breeder Native No No

Crotalus viridis

western 

rattlesnake

Probably 

Present
53

Table A-8. Summary of NPSpecies Codes for potentially occurring mammal species at Bear Paw 

National Historic Battlefield.

Scientific Name

Common 

Name Park Status Abundance Residency Nativity

Management 

Priority

Exploitation 

Concern

Lepus townsendii

white-tailed 

jack rabbit Present Common Migratory Native No No

Spermophilus 

richardsonii

Richardson's 

ground 

squirrel Present Abundant Breeder Native No No

Thomomys 

talpoides

northern 

pocket 

gopher

Probably 

Present

Peromyscus 

maniculatus deer mouse Present Abundant Breeder Native No No

Neotoma cinerea

bushy-tailed 

woodrat Present Common Breeder Native No No

Microtus 

pennsylvanicus meadow vole Present Common Breeder Native No No

Lemmiscus 

curtatus

sagebrush 

vole

Probably 

Present

Canis latrans coyote Present Common Resident Native No No

Vulpes vulpes red fox Present Uncommon Migratory Native No No

Taxidea taxus

American 

badger Present Uncommon Resident Native No No

Mephitis mephitis striped skunk Present Uncommon Breeder Native No No

Odocoileus 

hemionus mule deer Present Common Resident Native No No

Odocoileus 

virginianus

white-tailed 

deer Present Abundant Migratory Native No No

Antilocapra 

americana pronghorn Present Abundant Resident Native No No
54

Table A-9. Summary of NPSpecies Codes for potentially occurring amphibian and reptile species at Dug 

Bar.

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name Park Status Abundance Residency Nativity

Management 

Priority

Exploitation 

Concern

Bufo boreas

western 

toad

Probably 

Present

Sceloporus 

occidentalis

western 

fence lizard Present Abundant Breeder Native No No

Coluber 

constrictor racer Present Common Breeder Native No No

Pituophis 

catenifer

gopher 

snake Present Common Breeder Native No No

Thamnophis 

elegans

western 

terrestrial 

garter 

snake

Probably 

Present

Crotalus 

viridis

western 

rattlesnake Present Abundant Breeder Native No No
55

Table A-10. Summary of NPSpecies Codes for potentially occurring mammal species at Dug Bar.

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name

Park 

Status Abundance Residency Nativity

Management 

Priority

Exploitation 

Concern

Marmota 

flaviventris

yellow-bellied 

marmot

Probably 

Present

Thomomys 

talpoides

northern 

pocket 

gopher

Probably 

Present

Peromyscus 

maniculatus deer mouse Present Abundant Breeder Native No No

Neotoma 

cinerea

bushy-tailed 

woodrat

Probably 

Present

Odocoileus 

hemionus mule deer Present Common Migratory Native No No

Ovis 

canadensis

bighorn 

sheep Present Unknown Unknown Native No No

57

Appendix B. Summaries of species inventory information

Table B-1. Summary of information for determining park status of amphibian and reptile species not 

detected at Spalding. For this and all tables in Appendix B, species are listed in alphabetical order 

according to genus.

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name

Within 

Range Elevation Habitat Detectability Remarks Status

Ambystoma 

macrodactylum

long-toed 

salamander Yes Yes Limited Variable Unlikely Not Present

Ascaphus 

montanus

rocky 

mountain 

tailed frog Yes Yes Limited Variable Unlikely Not Present

Hyla regilla

Pacific 

treefrog Yes Yes Limited Variable Unlikely Not Present

Rana 

catesbeiana bullfrog Possible Yes Limited High Unlikely Not Present

Rana 

lutieventris

Columbia 

spotted frog Yes Yes Yes High Likely

Probably 

Present

Charina bottae rubber boa Yes Yes Limited Low Possible Not Present

Diadophis 

punctatus

ringneck 

snake Possible Yes Limited Low Possible Not Present

Eumeces 

skiltonianus

western 

skink Yes Yes Yes Variable Possible Not Present

Hypsiglena 

torquata night snake Possible Yes Yes Low Unlikely Not Present

Sceloporus 

occidentalis

western 

fence lizard Possible Yes Yes Variable Possible Not Present

Thamnophis 

sirtalis

common 

garter snake Yes Yes Limited High Possible Not Present
58

Table B-2. Summary of information for determining park status of mammal species not detected at 

Spalding.

Scientific Name

Common 

Name

Within 

Range Elevation Habitat Detectability Remarks Status

Cervus elaphus elk Yes Yes Yes High Likely Probably Present

Clethrionomys 

gapperi

southern 

red-backed 

vole Yes Yes Limited Variable Possible Not Present

Erethizon 

dorsatum

common 

porcupine Yes Too Low Limited Variable Unlikely Not Present

Lepus 

americanus

snowshoe 

hare Yes Too Low Limited Variable Unlikely Not Present

Lynx rufus bobcat Yes Yes Limited Low Possible Not Present

Microtis 

longicaudus

long-tailed 

vole Yes Yes Limited Variable Possible Not Present

Microtis 

pennsylvanicus

meadow 

vole Yes Yes Yes Variable Likely Probably Present

Mustela erminea

short-tailed 

weasel Yes Yes Limited Variable Possible Not Present

Mustela frenata

long-tailed 

weasel Yes Yes Yes Variable Likely Probably Present

Neotoma cinerea

bushytailed 

woodrat Yes Yes Yes Variable Likely Probably Present

Odocoileus 

hemionus mule deer Yes Yes Limited Variable Possible Not Present

Puma concolor

mountain 

lion Yes Yes Limited Low Possible Not Present

Sorex cinereus

masked 

shrew Yes Yes Limited Variable Unlikely Not Present

Sorex palustris

water 

shrew Yes Yes Limited Variable Possible Not Present

Sorex vagrans

vagrant 

shrew Yes Yes Yes Variable Likely Probably Present

Spermophilus 

columbianus

Columbian 

ground 

squirrel Yes Yes Limited Variable Possible Not Present

Spilogale gracilis

western 

spotted 

skunk Yes Yes Yes Low Possible Not Present

Tamias amoenus

yellow pine 

chipmunk Yes Yes Limited High Possible Not Present

Ursus 

americanus

American 

blackbear Yes Yes Limited Variable Possible Not Present
59

Table B-3. Summary of information for determining park status of amphibian and reptile species not 

detected at White Bird Battlefield.

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name

Within 

Range Elevation Habitat Detectability Remarks Status

Ascaphus 

montanus

rocky 

mountain 

tailed frog Yes Yes Limited Variable Unlikely Not Present

Rana 

lutieventris

Columbia 

spotted 

frog Yes Yes Yes High Likely

Probably 

Present

Charina 

bottae rubber boa Yes Yes Limited Low Possible Not Present

Eumeces 

skiltonianus

western 

skink Yes Yes Limited Variable Possible Not Present

Hypsiglena 

torquata

night 

snake Possible Yes Limited Low Unlikely Not Present

Sceloporus 

occidentalis

western 

fence 

lizard Yes Yes Yes Variable Possible Not Present

Thamnophis 

sirtalis

common 

garter 

snake Yes Yes Yes High Likely

Probably 

Present
60

Table B-4. Summary of information for determining park status of mammal species not detected at White 

Bird Battlefield.

Scientific Name

Common 

Name

Within 

Range Elevation Habitat Detectability Remarks Status

Clethrionomys 

gapperi

southern 

red-backed 

vole Yes Yes Limited Variable Unlikely Not Present

Erethizon 

dorsatum

common 

porcupine Yes Too Low Limited Variable Possible Not Present

Lepus 

americanus

snowshoe 

hare Yes Too Low Limited Variable Unlikely Not Present

Microtis 

montanus

montane 

vole No Too Low Limited Variable Unlikely Not Present

Microtis 

pennsylvanicus

meadow 

vole No Yes Limited Variable Unlikely Not Present

Mustela erminea

short-tailed 

weasel Yes Yes Limited Low Possible Not Present

Mustela frenata

long-tailed 

weasel Yes Yes Yes Low Likely Probably Present

Odocoileus 

hemionus mule deer Yes Yes Limited High Possible Not Present

Ondatra 

zibethicus muskrat Yes Yes Limited Variable Possible Not Present

Procyon lotor

common 

raccoon Yes Yes Limited Variable Unlikely Not Present

Puma concolor

mountain 

lion Yes Yes Limited Low Possible Not Present

Reithrodontomys

megalotis

western 

harvest 

mouse No Yes Yes Variable Unlikely Not Present

Sorex cinereus

masked 

shrew Yes Yes Limited Variable Possible Not Present

Sorex palustris

water 

shrew Yes Yes Limited Low Unlikely Not Present

Spermophilus 

columbianus

Columbian 

ground 

squirrel Yes Yes Yes High Likely Probably Present

Tamias amoenus

yellow pine 

chipmunk Yes Yes Limited High Unlikely Not Present

Tamiasciurus 

hudsonicus red squirrel Yes Yes Limited High Unlikely Not Present

Ursus 

americanus

American 

blackbear Yes Yes Limited Variable Possible Not Present
61

Table B-5. Summary of information for determining park status of amphibian and reptile species not 

detected at Heart of the Monster.

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name

Within 

Range Elevation Habitat Detectability Remarks Status

Ambystoma 

macrodactylum

long-toed 

salamander Yes Yes Yes Variable Possible

Not 

Present

Bufo boreas western toad Yes Yes Yes Variable Possible

Not 

Present

Hyla regilla

Pacific 

treefrog Yes Yes Yes Variable Possible

Not 

Present

Plethodon 

idahoensis

Coeur d' 

Alene 

salamander Yes Yes Limited Variable Unlikely

Not 

Present

Rana 

ludeiventris

Columbia 

spotted frog Yes Yes Yes High Possible

Not 

Present

Charina bottae rubber boa Yes Yes Limited Low Possible

Not 

Present

Crotalus viridis

western 

rattlesnake Yes Yes Limited Variable Possible

Not 

Present

Diadophis 

punctatus

ringneck 

snake Possible Yes Limited Low Possible

Not 

Present

Eumeces 

skiltonianus

western 

skink Yes Yes Limited Variable Possible

Not 

Present

Pituophis 

melanoleucus

gopher 

snake Yes Yes Yes High Likely

Probably 

Present

Thamnophis 

sirtalis

common 

garter snake Yes Yes Yes High Likely

Probably 

Present
62

Table B-6. Summary of information for determining park status of mammal species not detected at 

Heart of the Monster.

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name

Within 

Range Elevation Habitat Detectability Remarks Status

Cervus 

elaphus elk Yes Yes Limited High Possible Not Present

Erethizon 

dorsatum

common 

porcupine Yes Yes Limited Variable Possible Not Present

Lepus 

americanus

snowshoe 

hare Yes No Yes Variable Likely

Probably 

Present

Lontra 

canadensis

northern river 

otter Yes Yes Yes Variable Likely

Probably 

Present

Lynx rufus bobcat Yes Yes Limited Low Possible Not Present

Marmota 

flaviventris

yellow-bellied 

marmot Yes Too Low Limited High Unlikely Not Present

Mephitis 

mephitis striped skunk Yes Yes Yes Variable Likely

Probably 

Present

Microtus 

montanus montane vole Possible Yes Yes Variable Possible Not Present

Mustela 

erminea

short-tailed 

weasel Yes Yes Limited Low Possible Not Present

Neotoma 

cinerea

bushy-tailed 

woodrat Yes Yes Limited Variable Possible Not Present

Puma 

concolor mountain lion Yes Yes Limited Low Possible Not Present

Sorex 

cinereus masked shrew Yes Yes Yes Variable Likely

Probably 

Present

Sorex 

palustris water shrew Yes Yes Yes Low Possible Not Present

Spermophilus 

columbianus

Columbian 

ground squirrel Yes Yes Yes High Likely

Probably 

Present

Spilogale 

gracilis

western 

spotted skunk Yes Yes Limited Low Unlikely Not Present

Tamias 

amoenus

yellow pine 

chipmunk Yes Yes Yes High Likely

Probably 

Present

Tamiasciurus 

hudsonicus red squirrel Yes Yes Yes High Likely

Probably 

Present

Taxidea taxus

American 

badger Yes Yes Limited Variable Unlikely Not Present

Ursus 

americanus

American 

blackbear Yes Yes Limited Variable Possible Not Present
63

Table B-7. Summary of information for determining park status of amphibian and reptile species not 

detected at Bear Paw Battlefield.

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name

Within 

Range Elevation Habitat Detectability Remarks Status

Ambystoma 

tigrinum

tiger 

salamander Yes Yes Possible High Likely Probably Present

Bufo cognatus

great plains 

toad Yes Yes Possible Variable Possible Not Present

Pseudacris 

maculata

boreal chorus 

frog Yes Yes Possible Variable Possible Not Present

Rana pipiens

northern 

leopard frog Yes Yes Limited High Unlikely Not Present

Spea 

bombifrons

plains 

spadefoot Yes Yes Yes Variable Possible Not Present

Coluber 

constrictor racer Yes Yes Yes High Likely Probably Present

Crotalus viridis

western 

rattlesnake Yes Yes Yes Variable Likely Probably Present

Heterodon 

nasicus

western 

hognose snake Yes Yes Yes Low Possible Not Present

Phrynosoma 

hernandesi

greater shorthorned lizard Yes Yes Yes Variable Possible Not Present

Pituophis 

catenifer gopher snake Yes Yes Yes High Likely Probably Present

Thamnophis 

elegans

western 

terrestrial 

garter snake Yes Yes Yes High Likely Probably Present
64

Table B-8. Summary of information for determining park status of mammal species not detected at 

Bear Paw Battlefield.

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name

Within 

Range Elevation Habitat Detectability Remarks Status

Lemmiscus 

curtatus

sagebrush 

vole Yes Yes Yes Likely

Probably 

Present

Lepus 

americanus

snowshoe 

hare Yes Yes Limited High Possible

Not 

Present

Lynx rufus bobcat Yes Yes Limited Low Possible

Not 

Present

Mustela nivalis least weasel Yes Yes Possible Variable Possible

Not 

Present

Mustela vision mink Yes Yes Limited Variable Unlikely

Not 

Present

Onychomys 

leucogaster

northern 

grasshopper 

mouse Yes Yes Limited Possible

Not

Present

Perognathus 

fasciatus

olive-backed 

pocket 

mouse Yes Yes Variable Possible

Not 

Present

Reithrodontomys 

megalotis

western 

harvest 

mouse Yes Yes Variable Possible

Not 

Present

Sorex haydeni

Hayden's 

shrew Yes Yes Limited Possible

Not 

Present

Sorex vagrans

vargrant 

shrew No Yes Limited Unlikely

Not 

Present

Spermophilus 

tridecemlineatus

thirteenlined ground 

squirrel Yes Limited High Unlikely

Not 

Present

Sylvilagus 

audubonii

desert 

cottontail No Yes Variable Possible

Not 

Present

Sylvilagus 

nuttallii

mountain 

cottontail Yes Possible High Unlikely

Not 

Present

Thomomys 

talpoides

northern 

pocket 

gopher Yes Yes Possible High Likely

Probably 

Present

Vulpes velox swift fox Yes Yes Low Possible

Not 

Present

Zapus hudsonius

western 

jumping

mouse Yes Too Low Limited High Unlikely

Not 

Present
65

Table B-9. Summary of information for determining park status of amphibian and reptile species not 

detected at Dug Bar.

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name

Within 

Range Elevation Habitat Detectability Remarks Status

Ambystoma 

macrodactylum

long-toed 

salamander Yes Yes Limited High Unlikely Not Present

Bufo boreas western toad Yes Yes Yes Variable Likely

Probably 

Present

Hyla regilla

Pacific 

treefrog Yes Yes Limited Variable Unlikely Not Present

Charina bottae rubber boa Yes Yes Limited Low Unlikely Not Present

Eumeces 

skiltonianus

western 

skink Yes Yes Limited Variable Unlikely Not Present

Hypsiglena 

torquata night snake Possible Yes Yes Low Possible Not Present

Thamnophis 

elegans

western 

terrestrial 

garter snake Yes Yes Yes High Likely

Probably 

Present
66

Table B-10. Summary of information for determining park status of mammal species not detected 

at Dug Bar.

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name

Within 

Range Elevation Habitat Detectability Remarks Status

Marmota 

flaviventris

yellowbellied 

marmot Yes Yes Yes High Likely

Probably 

Present

Neotoma 

cinerea

bushytailed 

woodrat Yes Yes Yes Variable Likely

Probably 

Present

Ochotoma 

princeps

American 

pika Possible Too Low Yes Variable Unlikely Not Present

Puma 

concolor

mountain 

lion Yes Yes Limited Low Possible Not Present

Spermophilus 

lateralis

goldenmantled 

ground 

squirrel Possible Possible Variable Unlikely Not Present

Taxidea 

taxus

American 

badger Yes Yes Possible Variable Possible Not Present

Thomomys 

talpoides

northern 

pocket 

gopher Yes Yes Yes High Likely

Probably 

Present
67

Appendix C. Field data forms

Form C-1. Data sheet used for all amphibian and reptile surveys of wetlands (ponds, lakes, wet 

meadows, etc.) within Nez Perce National Historical Sites.

AMPHIBIAN SURVEY DATA SHEET - modified after S.P. Corn, NBS, Fort Collins, CO (ver. 1 May 1996)

Herpetology Laboratory, Idaho State University and Idaho Museum of Natural History, Box 8007, Pocatello, ID 83209

 (208) 236-3922 voice 236-4570 FAX e-mail: petechar@isu.edu

DATE BEGIN TIME END TIME OBSERVERS

LOCALITY

STATE COUNTY MAP NAME OWNER ELEVATION

T R S UTM ZONE/DATUM NORTHING EASTING

AMPHIBIAN AND REPTILE SPECIES PRESENT (INDICATE NUMBERS IN CATEGORIES IF POSSIBLE)

SPECIES ADULT JUVENILE METAM. LARVAE EGGS CALLING TECHNIQUE(S) VOUCHER

FISH PRESENT YES ??? NO FISH SPECIES:

ENTIRE SITE SEARCHED? YES NO IF NO, IDICATE AREA: meters of shoreline habitat

WEATHER: RADIATION: CLEAR PARTIAL OVERCAST WIND: CALM LIGHT MEDIUM HEAVY

AIR TEMPERATURE (1 M SHADED) oC OR F % CLOUD COVER: PRECIPTATION: SNOW RAIN

WATER TEMPERATURE (1CM) pH: CONDUCTIVITY SAMPLE?

COLOR CLEAR STAINED TURBIDITY CLEAR CLOUDY

SITE DESCRIPTION PUT SKETCH AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS ON BACK OF SHEET

ORIGIN NATURAL MAN-MADE MAN-MODIFIED DRAINAGE PERMANENT OCCASIONAL NONE

SITE TYPE TEMPORARY or PERMANENT LAKE/POND MARSH BOG STREAM SPRING/SEEP ACTIVE or INACTIVE BEAVER POND

NATIONAL WETLAND INVENTORY CLASIFICATION GAP ANALYSIS COVER TYPE (IF KNOWN)

STREAM ORDER 1 2 3 4 5 6

SITE LENGTH m SITE WIDTH m MAXIMUM DEPTH < 1M 1 - 2 M > 2 M

PRIMARY SUBSTRATE SILT/MUD SAND/GRAVEL COBBLE BOULDER/BEDROCK OTHER:

% OF LAKE MARGIN WITH EMERGENT VEGETATION 0 1 - 25 25 - 50 >50

EMERGENT VEGETATION SPECIES (IN ORDER OF ABUNDANCE)

NORTH SHORELINE CHARACTERISTICS SHALLOWS 

PRESENT

SHALLOWS 

ABSENT

EMERGENT 

PRESENT

VEG EMERGENT 

ABSENT

VEG

DISTANCE TO FOREST EDGE m FOREST TREE SPECIES
68

Form C-2. Small mammal trapping transect form. 

Small Mammal Transect Form ID #:______________

Observer:_____________________ Origin UTM:______________________________________

Prebait Date:_____________ Transect Bearing:____________

Open Date:_____________ Check Date:_______________

Slope:_________ Aspect:__________ Elevation:______________

Location Description:________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

Habitat Description:_________________________________________________________________

Weather During Trap Period:__________________________________________________________

Trp Species Cap # Age/Sex Wgt Location Microhabitat Voucher # UTM L T HF

1

2

3
69

Form C-3. Wire funnel trap and small mammal trap capture form

Wire Funnel Trap Capture Form ID # __________________

Observer: _______________________________ Open Date: __________________________ Close Date:__________________________

Center UTM: _____________________________ Elevation: ______________________________

Capture Period Weather: ___________________ Slope: ___________________ Aspect: ________________

Location Description: _______________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

Habitat Description: ________________________

Capture # Capture Date Species Age/Sex L T HF Voucher

___________________________ ___________ ______________________ ___________ ___________ ____________ _________

___________________________ ___________ ______________________ ___________ ___________ ____________ _________

___________________________ ___________ ______________________ ___________ ___________ ____________ _________

___________________________ ___________ ______________________ ___________ ___________ ____________ _________

___________________________ ___________ ______________________ ___________ ___________ ____________ _________
70

Form C-4. Data form used for all incidental observations of amphibians and reptiles.
71

Appendix D. Species inventory photo collection

Representative Photos 1 and 2: Lapwai Creek and Transect #1 along the Clearwater River in the 

Spalding site of the Nez Perce National Historical Park, Spalding, ID.
72

Representative Photos 3 and 4: Swartz Pond and an overview of the White Bird National Battlefield, 

White Bird, ID.
73

Representative Photos 5 and 6: Kamiah Pond and the overview of the Heart of the Monster, East 

Kamiah, ID.
74

Representative Photo 7: Overview of Snake Creek and the prairie land of Bear Paw National Battlefield, 

Chinook, MT.
75

Representative Photos 8 and 9: Habitat variation at Dug Bar National Historical Site on the Snake River 

in Hells Canyon, OR.

The Department of the Interior protects and manages the nation’s natural resources and cultural heritage; provides scientific and 

other information about those resources; and honors its special responsibilities to American Indians, Alaska Natives, and 

affiliated Island Communities.

NPS 429/101121, March 2010
Natural Resource Program Center

1201 Oakridge Drive, Suite 150

Fort Collins, Colorado 80525

www.nature.nps.gov

EXPERIENCE YOUR AMERICA TM

National Park Service

U.S. Department of the Interior