Bully Frogs Invade Montana

Toads and frogs are calling out looking for mates across Montana, but some of them could be causing harm to Montana.

Adam Sepulveda with the U.S. Geological Survey wants people to know bullfrogs threaten Montana's waterways.

A lot of people, not just Montanans don't recognize that bullfrogs are a bad thing.

Bullfrogs are native to the eastern United States and since they were thought to be harmless, many were spread by humans across the western u.s., but recent evidence shows bullfrogs have an impact on native frogs across the West.

"In Montana we have a beautiful native frog, leopard frog. We know it is declining and we want to do what we can to help it persist, and we think that means controlling and when possible getting rid of bullfrogs," Sepulveda said.

Bullfrogs first found there way into Montana sometime in the 1920's and since then they have expanded their range across Western Montana.

But it was only in the last couple of decades they were found in eastern Montana. leaving Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks wildlife managers concerned about stopping their spread further.

"I think at this point eradication that is not going to happen, so at this point what can we do about it is more about containment and prevention of introductions in other areas in eastern Montana," Sepulveda said.

Sepulveda and the USGS are looking at ways to curb the spread of bullfrogs, but the challenge will be getting people to understand the threat bullfrogs bring to Montana.

"They see them as a frog and they kind of think of being a 4-year-old running around with a net and being like it is fun to go around and catch them," Sepulveda .said.

Other Western States are also trying to curb bullfrogs impact on native frogs.

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