Bufo canorus - Yosemite Toad

[David Tobler]

Even though I've lived near this species for many years, this past June was my first time I've actually looked for them. I unfortunately missed seeing the congregation of breeding adults in the pools left from the snow melt. There were plenty of tadpoles and young toads around the exposed, sun lit meadow. I did happen to find one adult male hiding under a log with several younger toads near the meadow's edge. My hopes of photographing a pair of toads together has yet to be fulfilled, so I'll be making another trip up the hill next year. I'll have to try for late May next time, hopefully the roads won't be covered in snow.

Here's a couple shots from that day:



Yosemite Toad habitat, approx. 9200 ft. in elevation.



One of many juvenile canorus found.





Adult male Yosemite Toad.



Several Pacific Chorus Frogs - Psuedacris regilla were seen as well.

[John]

Superb shots, David. Thank you for sharing - it's appreciated.

[tylototriton]

Great Pictures! Just wondering since i'm shopping for a camera, what are you shooting with?

Alex

[John]

I believe David uses a Sony DSC-F828. However having seen quite a few of David's photos over the last few months I believe these photos are the result of skill and a great eye, rather than equipment. He just came top of the judging on the Caudata.org Calendar competition (we haven't officially announced the winners but one of his photos received the most votes) and there was some pretty stiff competition.

[jody]

what wonderful pictures. can I use chorus frog as a model for my next watercolor. im not a pro yet, I dont sell them, but will be glad to send you one of what ever I paint.

[coltiger]

Those pictures are amazing! That is a good looking toad, are those toads endangered now?

[coltiger]

In addition to its listing as an endangered animal on the IUCN Red List, Bufo canorus is a Category 2 candidate for listing as an Endangered Species by the United States fish and Wildlife Service. Vehicular traffic kills, prolonged periods of drought, and disease all claim partial responsibility in the rapid decline of Bufo canorus. Attempts are being made at various zoological institutions throughout the U.S. to successfully breed and reintroduce this species back into its native range. (Romanisic and Chaver, 2002)

I guess I found the answer

[John]

Interesting reading, thanks Coltiger.

[coltiger]

No problem I really like this toad, it has always been one that when I think of what a toad looks like...this is what I picture.