Northern Red-legged Frog (Rana aurora)

SARA Species of Special Concern
Life stage observable in the spring: egg-masses and tadpoles developing in ponds

The Northern Red-legged Frog, not to be mistaken with the Pacific Chorus Frog, is a quiet frog that prefers the comfort of its ground environment. These frogs are found in and around wetlands, ponds, streams, and lakes, as well as a diversity of forests. They have large legs and webbed feet for swimming, and mottled golden-brown skin that helps them blend in to their environment. Their common name is inspired by the pinkish hue on their legs.

Shortly after emerging from winter hibernation in the forest, these frogs migrate to watery habitat to reproduce, sometimes as early as February! As young frogs develop and mature throughout the spring, they feed on insects and other invertebrates found in the ecosystem around them.

How to Help the Northern Red-legged Frog

• If you have a pond on your property, keep it clean! Avoid harmful products like pesticides and synthetic fertilizers that can impact ponds through run off.
• Whether you’re on your own property or recreating in the Islands Trust Area, avoid disrupting Northern Red-legged Frog habitat including wetlands and the forest understory. When visiting parks and open nature reserves, stay on authorized trails and keep your dog on leash and cleaned up after.

If you observe a Northern Red-legged Frog, enjoy from a distance. Contribute your observations through iNaturalist, sending an email to SAR@islandstrust.bc.ca or through the BC Government Frogwatching site: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/plants-animals-ecosystems/wildlife/wildlife-conservation/amphibians-reptiles/frogwatching.