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Effigy Mounds National Monument
Amphibians
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| Gray treefrog climbing up a wall |
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Effigy Mounds' abundant wetlands are habitat for a chorus of amphibians. In early spring, the chirping of various frogs arises from the ponds and marshes as they begin their courtship ritual. Bullfrogs, American toads, leopard, pickerel, green and western chorus frogs, along with spring peepers lend their voice to the fray. Nearby the common gray treefrog puts in his two cents worth.
Amphibians, as a bioindicator species, are sensitive to changes in water quality and habitat degradation. This habitat degradation is a common reason for the decline in amphibian numbers that is being experienced across the Midwest. Unlike mammals, it is difficult for amphibians to travel overland in search of better living conditions. Local populations are vulnerable to human crises such as chemical or pesticide spills or misuse.
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Did You Know?
In 1880, Alfred J. Hill and Theodore H. Lewis formed the Northwestern Archeological Survey for the purpose of surveying mounds in the Upper Mississippi Valley. Lewis spent eleven field seasons in Iowa and was the first to map mounds in the present Effigy Mounds National Monument.
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Last Updated: July 31, 2006 at 10:42 EST |
