Northern leopard frogs are now listed as endangered in the Northwest Territories after the N.W.T. Species at Risk Committee re-assessed the status of two amphibious Northerners.
An updated assessment was released May 30. Also re-assessed as still threatened was the Western Toad.
"Unlike some species of frogs, northern leopard frogs cannot survive if they freeze and cannot hibernate in the N.W.T." explains the assessment. "Northern leopard frogs are therefore limited to only the very southern N.W.T. where suitable overwintering sites exist.
"Threats to this species include disease, habitat loss from drought and wildfire, and human disturbances such as hydro development and road mortality."
Across Canada, the frog is listed as special concern. Globally, the species is considered least concern.
However, the leopard frogs in the N.W.T. are a distinct population, according to a 2024 study ans they are geographically isolated from other leopard frogs across the continent.
"(The) Northern leopard frog is a slender, medium-sized green-brown frog with oval-shaped spots on the back that are bordered with light halos similar to a leopard," adds the report. "Two cream-coloured ridges extend the length of the back.
"Northern leopard frogs are uncommon in the N.W.T., and have only been found near the Slave, Taltson and Tazin rivers in the southern N.W.T."
To counter the decline in population, the assessment recommends further gathering of traditional knowledge of breeding sites, population trends and their habitat. The report notes there are large gaps in knowledge of where the frogs are. Once known breeding sites and critical habitat are identified, they can be protected from development.
Frog and nature lovers are also encouraged to report sightings of the Northern amphibians to wildlifeOBS@gov.nt.ca or on https://inaturalist.ca to help fill knowledge gaps.
