Technical Report #82-2-04 the HERPETOLOGY of CURRY

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FISH & WILDLIFE Technical Report #82-2-04 REFEREfWIBRARY

THE HERPETOLOGY OF CURRY COUNTYs OREGON

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Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife Nongame Wildlife Program I

THE HERPETOLOGY OF CURRY COUNTY, OREGON

Alan D. St. John

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife Nongame Wildlife Program Technical Report #82-2-04

1982 CONTENTS

Page

1 ABSTRACT ......

INTRODUCTION 1 ...... METHODS 2 ......

2 RESULT5 ......

3 Species Accounts -- Amphibians Northwestern Salamander ...... 3 Salamander...... 4 Southern Long-toed ...... Pacific Giant Salamander 4 Southern Olympic Salamander...... 5 Northern Rough-skinned Newt ...... 5 Dunn's Salamander ...... 6 Western Red-backed ...... Salamander 6 Del Norte Salamander ...... 7 Painted Salamander ...... 7 California Slender ...... Salamander 7 Speckled Black Salamander ...... 8 Clouded Salamander ...... 8 Tailed Frog ...... 9 ...... 9 Western Toad ...... Pacific Treefrog 10 ...... Frog 10 Northern Red-legged ...... Spotted Frog 11 Foothill Yellow-legged...... Frog 11 ...... 11 Bullfrog ...... 12 Species Accounts -- Reptiles ...... Northwestern Pond Turtle 12 Northwestern Fence Lizard...... 12 Northern Sagebrush Lizard ...... 12 Western Skink ...... 13 ...... 14 Oregon Alligator Lizard ...... Northern Alligator Lizard 14 Rubber Boa ...... 15 ...... Ringneck Snake 15 Northwestern ...... Sharp-tailed Snake 16 ...... 17 Western Yellow-bellied Racer ...... Pacific Gopher Snake 18 Mountain ...... 18 California Kingsnake ...... Valley Garter Snake 19 Snake ...... 20 Coast Garter ...... Oregon Garter Snake 20 Northwestern Garter ...... Snake 21 ...... 21 Northern Pacific Rattlesnake ......

i CONTENTS (Continued)

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22 DISCUSSION ...... 24 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ...... 24 REFERENCES ...... 25 APPENDICES ...... 25 Appendix A. Bibliography of Oregon herpetology ...... Appendix B. Distribution maps indicating unconfirmed reports, historical records, and locations 27 found during this inventory ...... THE HERPETOLOGY OF CURRY COUNTY, OREGON

Alan D. St. John

ABSTRACT

A herpetological inventory of Curry County, Oregon, was conducted in 1982 as part of a statewide survey of the status and distribution of Oregon's amphibians and reptiles. Of a possible 36 species, including hypothetical forms, 24 species were found during the field inventory. Four additional species were added from verified records of area biologists. Only one of four protected or uncommon species was found, the sagebrush lizard (Scelo- pgrourstgraciosus). Species accounts, including unconfirmed r S, nistorical collections, and inventory results are provided along with a summary of habitat preferences and a map of the known distribution of each species in Curry County.

INTRODUCTION

The mild climate of Curry County on the southern Oregon coast, with its diverse habitats and large variety of herptofauna, is fairly unique. The many species of reptiles and amphibians found there is reflective of influences from Californian ecosystems to the south, the cooler, humid Coast Range to the north, and the dryer interior valleys to the east. Therefore, besides the varieties of reptiles and amphibians common to the Oregon coast, several species and subspecies typical of California find the northern limits of their range in Curry County and do not occur elsewhere in Oregon.

A herpetological inventory of Curry County was conducted as part of a statewide effort to determine the distribution and status of Oregon's amphibians and reptiles for the Mongame Wildlife Program of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. The main focus of this project was to survey those coastal sections of the county subject to development (i.e., Brookings and Gold Beach), but some of the more mountainous, inland areas were studied as well. Results of this inventory along with historical records for the entire county are all included in this report. METHODS

From 4 July to 4 August 1982, I conducted a herpetological inventory of Curry County. Collection data was recorded on all reptiles and amphibians, but particular emphasis was placed on four protected or uncommon species. These were the sharp-tailed snake (Contia tenuis), California mountain kingsnake (Lampropeltis zonata), sagebrush lizard (Sceloporus graciosus), and California slender salamander (Batrachoseps attenuates).

My field methods involved locating a promising looking hillside, canyon, stream, or pond. I then sought the owner's permission to investigate their land, perhaps showing pictures of the uncommon varieties and asking if these species had been seen. I would then systematically "work" the entire area. For example, if the habitat happened to be a steep hillside, I would "zig-zag" up the slope searching the tops of rocks, logs, and stumps for sunning lizards and snakes, along with looking under rocks, logs and other surface debris for the secretive varieties. Though usually working by myself, through this tight switchbacking up a hillside I can generally investigate an area quite thoroughly. The edges of ponds, streams, and rivers were always searched for aquatic species. Field glasses were used to scan the tops of floating logs for turtles.

Road hunting in the evenings was little used during this project as the coastal evenings were usually too cool for snake activity. Also, since there was little rain during the four weeks, I was unable to accomplish much in the way of nocturnal road hunts for amphibians.

RESULTS

Of a possible 36 species of amphibians and reptiles for Curry County (including hypothetical forms), 24 were found during the course of this inventory. An additional four species were added to the list through verified records provided by a trained biologist with the Department of Interior in Brookings. Of the eight species that did not turn up, five are hypothetical varieties that have not been verified as occurring in the area (i.e., black

-2- salamander, western red-backed salamander, long-toed salamander, northwestern salamander, and spotted frog).

Of the four protected or uncommon species that received special emphasis, only one, the sagebrush lizard, was found during the course of this project. The California mountain kin(isnake is included hPrP nn1v nn tho basic @f old inland records and unverified coastal reports; the sharptail snake is known from coastal Curry County by one specimen found dead on a road in 1978; and the California slender salamander has been found at only a few localities in the area. With few or no representatives of these four species found during this project, it appears that they will remain classified as uncommon in Curry County.

The following is a species by species account of the amphibians and reptiles of Curry County (both known and hypothetical), including a brief outline of the habitat preferences for each. No descriptions or identifica- tion keys are given here. Instead, I refer the reader to my booklet "Knowing Oregon Reptiles" (St. John 1980) and Robert C. Stebbins' "A Field Guide to Western Reptiles and Amphibians" (Stebbins 1966). Other pertinent books are listed in the bibliography in Appendix A of this report.

Distribution maps indicating specific localities where a species was found during this inventory, as well as historical records and unconfirmed reports are included in Appendix B.

Species Accounts -- Amphibians

Northwestern or Brown Salamander (Ambystoma gracile gracile)

I found no specimens of this large salamander and have no records in my files for Curry County. Biologist Gene Stagner said he had never seen the northwestern salamander in the area either. It is apparently either quite rare or completely absent from the southern coast.

-3- Its preferred habitat is damp coniferous forests and oak woodlands, usually near water. Northwestern salamanders are generally encountered under logs and rocks, but can often be seen abroad at night during the spring as they cross roads to reach aquatic spawning sites.

Southern Long-toed Salamander (Ambystoma macrodactylum sigillatwn)

The long-toed salamander appears to be uncommon or absent from the southern Oregon coast. I found none there and have no records in my files for its occurrence in the area. Biologist Gene Stagner said he has never encountered the long-toed salamander during his field work either.

In western Oregon, this species inhabits both the oak woodlands and the mountain coniferous forests and meadows. Look for this salamander under rotting logs, bark, old boards, and damp rocks in the early spring. During the dry season, they become largely subterranean in their habits and are rarely seen.

Pacific Giant Salamander (Dicamptodon ensatus)

One specimen of this large salamander was seen. A larval individual was found on 21 July 1982, in a pool in Quail Prairie Creek, about 0.25 miles upstream from its outlet into the South Fork of the Chetco River. Biologist Gene Stagner told me that he sees these salamanders frequently during his work along the streams of the area. Several other residents reported seeing these large salamanders while fishing. Apparently the giant salamander is quite widespread along the southern Oregon coast.

Dr. Kenneth Gordon (1939) reports this species as being found in May of 1940 at the confluence of the South Fork of the Chetco River with the main course of the Chetco. Fitch (1936) collected giant salamanders in Lobster Creek and in a shady ravine 11 miles up the north bank of the Rogue River. The only other past record for Curry County in my files is for near Agness on Waters Creek (Storm 1962).

-4- The usual habitat of the giant salamander is one of cool, damp coniferous forests near streams, rivers, or lakes. Although it is usually found under logs, rocks, and other surface objects, it is occasionally encountered out moving about during the night or sometimes during daylight hours. The larvae of this species inhabit clear, cool waters, often in neotenic form.

Southern Olympic Salamander (Rhyacotriton olympicus varie2atus)

The Olympic salamander was found at two locations: the first site was along the small, unnamed stream that flows along the Redwood Nature Trail 0.5 miles north of Loeb State Park; the second location was on Mill Creek approximately 5 miles east of Harbor. The salamanders were seen under the rock rubble in seepages at the edge of the streams or around waterfalls. This the typical Both were much same is habitat of this species. locations the -- the splash zone of streams in deep coniferous forests with a cool, humid, shady atmosphere. A mixture of redwoods, Douglas fir, broadleaf maple, vine maple, alder, tanoak, Oregon myrtle, and various species of ferns made up the immediate plant cover.

Fitch (1936) records the Olympic salamander as having been collected "in a deep, heavily shaded ravine on the north side of the Rogue River, 11 miles above its mouth."

northern Rough-skinned Newt (Taricha qranulosa granuloma)

The newt was found to be the most common amphibian in Curry County. Almost every stream, river, pond, and lake supported a large population of Taricha.

Some localities are: the Winchuck River; Chetco River at many sites such as Loeb State Park, Little Redwood Forest Camp, and at the mouth of the South Fork; the Redwood Nature Trail area; 5 miles east of Harbor on Mill Creek; Vulcan Lake; Rocky Prairie; Pistol River; Lobster Creek; Quosatana Creek; Agness; and near the fish hatchery on the Elk River. Many of the newts from the Chetco and Winchuck drainages showed some of the characteristics of the California newt (Taricha torosa). Specimens I examined from Vulcan Lake and the river system to the north looked to be typical granuloma. Several specimens with the torosa traits were sent to Dr. Robert C. Stebbins at the University of California in Berkeley for examination.

Dunn's Salamander (Plethodon dunni)

This little green-backed salamander was observed at only one location. On 14 July 1982, three specimens were found under wet rocks by a waterfall on the small stream that flows through the Redwood Nature Trail area.

I have only two past records in my files for Curry County: one is given by Fitch (1936) for a ravine on the north side of the Rogue River, 11 miles above its mouth; the other comes from north of Agness on Waters Creek (Storm 1962).

The Dunn's salamander is usually found in damp, mossy rock rubble and under logs in cool, shady situations close to streams. It seems to'prefer wetter habitats than the other members of the Plethodon group. It will occasionally hide under rocks by streams and waterfalls well within the splash zone, sometimes taking to water in an effort to escape (as was the case with two of the specimens found at the Redwood Nature Trail site).

Western Red-backed Salamander (Plethodon vehiculum)

As far as I know, the red-backed salamander has never been found in Curry County and it appears to be absent from the southern Oregon coast. However, future collecting my reveal its presence at the northern edge of the county (i.e., the Elk, Sixes, and Floras drainage systems).

This salamander prefers slightly dryer situations than Dunn's salamander. It is found under rocks, logs, moss, and leaf litter in both coniferous forests and oak woodlands.

-6- Del Norte Salamander (Plethodon elongates

Though I have found this salamander at several places in Curry County in the past, I was able to find it at only one location during this inventory (this was probably due to dryer, early summer conditions). Two specimens were found on 14 July 1981 under rocks along the Redwood Nature Trail in a mixed forest of redwoods, Douglas fir, tanoak, Oregon myrtle, broadleaf, and vine maple, and various ferns. This is a typical coniferous forest habitat for this species, although I have also found it in white oak woodlands near Carpenterville. Del Norte salamanders are not only found under rocks, but also beneath logs, bark, boards, and other surface litter.

During April and May of 1972, I caught these amphibians at several localities near Carpenterville (Rocky Prairie, Indian Rocks, and 2.4 miles south of Carpenterville). It has also been recorded in the past from north of Agness on.Waters Creek and by Fitch (1936) from a ravine 11 miles above the mouth of the Rogue River on the north bank.

Painted Salamander (Ensatina eschscholtzi picta)

One Ensatina was found during this inventory. This was at the Redwood Nature Trail area, 8.5 miles up the North Bank Road along the Chetco River on 2 August 1982. The salamander was under a large strip of fallen bark from a huge decaying redwood log on the slope just above interpretive post number 13. This is typical habitat for the painted salamander. They prefer damp, rotting logs and stumps in both coniferous forests and oak woodlands.

The only other records for this species in Curry County come from Gordon (1939), who reports it from Port Orford and Harbor; Fitch (1936) for near the mouth of Silver Creek on the north side of the Rogue River; and Storm (1962) who records it as being found approximately 6 miles north of Agness.

California Slender Salamander (Batrachoseps attenuates

This tiny salamander is known from Oregon only in Curry County. Although no specimens were located during the course of this survey, I have collected

-7- it in the area in the past. During early April of 1972, I found a California slender salamander under a damp rock in a woodlands of white oak, sword fern, and a few scattered Douglas firs. This was at the lower edge of the big, open, grassy slope by Indian Rocks, 2 miles south of Carpenterville.

Biologist Gene Stagner has found this interesting little amphibian under the moss of a rotting log beside Mill Creek, 5 miles east of Harbor. Dr. Kenneth Gordon (1939) records this species from Harbor and Gold Beach.

Besides oak woodlands, the slender salamander also inhabits open, grassy areas with scattered trees, and coniferous forests (including redwood forests), hiding under damp logs, bark, and leaf litter.

Speckled (Anei A Black Salamander des flavipunctatus flavipunctatus) - Protected Species

Although this salamander has not been recorded from coastal Oregon, it may occur there, as it is found only a short distance south down the coast of California.

Black salamanders seem to especially prefer moist, mossy-covered rock slides, but may also be found under individual rocks, logs, and bark in both coniferous forests and oak woodlands.

Clouded Salamander (Aneides ferreus)

The clouded salamander was found at several localities and seems to be common in Curry County. It was seen 5 miles east of Harbor on Mill Creek; the Redwood Nature Trail area; 0.5 miles up Quail Prairie Creek; the western edge of the Kalmiopsis Wilderness at the old Gardner Mine; 2 miles north of Flycatcher Spring; and at Pine Point Campground on upper Hunter Creek.

-8- In the past, it has also been recorded from 6 miles north of Agness and along the Rogue River between Lobster and Silver Creeks.

Clouded salamanders have a marked preference for hiding under the bark of dead trees (they are excellent climbers) and fallen, decaying logs and stumps. Less commonly, they are encountered under rocks, moss, and leaf litter. They are especially associated with the edges of clearings in humid fir and cedar forests.

Tailed Frog (Ascaphus truei) - A Protected Species

Although I did not personally encounter this unusual little frog, biologist Gene Stagner told me that he has found Ascaphus along Quail Prairie Creek and on the upper part of the Winchuck River.

The only other record for Curry County that I could find is given by Fitch (1936) for "11 miles above the mouth of the Rogue River, in a shady ravine." Although my records are few, it is undoubtedly quite widespread throughout the streams of the area.

This is a very aquatic frog, living within or along the edges of rocky, cold, mountain streams in humid coniferous forests. It can often be found by turning over rocks in streams, as this seems to be a favored hiding place. The larvae possess sucker mouths for clinging to rocks in the swift-flowing currents.

Western or Boreal Toad (Bufo boreas boreas)

The western toad is undoubtedly widespread throughout Curry County. Although I saw few adults, many larvae were observed. Two adult specimens were encountered: one at Mill Beach by Brookings; the other on Gardner Ridge. Larvae were seen at several localities along the Winchuck, Chetco, and Pistol Rivers. Others were seen in Lobster Creek and Vulcan Lake. In the past it has been recorded from Oak Flat on the Illinois River.

-9- The western toad inhabits the vicinity of streams, rivers, lakes, ponds, and springs. It is often seen along the edges of water in burrows, either of its own construction or those of small mammals.

Pacific Treefrog (Hyla regilla)

The ubiquitous treefrog was seen in virtually every habitat within the borders of Curry County. A few localities are: Vulcan Lake, the Winchuck River; many sites along the Chetco River; Brookings; Harbor; Mill Creek; Quail Prairie Creek; Pistol River; Hunter Creek; Flycatcher Spring; Red Flat; 1.3 miles up the North Bank Road of the Rogue River; Lobster Creek; Agness; Oak Flat on the Illinois River; the Elk River near the fish hatchery-, and along Floras Creek.

Treefrogs are extremely adaptable for amphibians and can be found in habitats ranging from lakes and rivers to dry rock talus on southern hillsides.

Northern Red-legged Frog (Rana.aurora aurora)

These large, beautiful frogs seem to be rather uncommon along the southern Oregon coast. I personally saw none while conducting this inventory. Gene Stagner told me that he has seen few doing his work along the streams of Curry County. Stagner said he had observed the red-legged frog only on two tributaries of the Winchuck River, Moser Creek and Bear Creek.

Fitch (1936) reported it from 4 miles east of Gold Beach and along Lobster Creek.

The red-legged frog prefers cooler and shadier streams than its relative the yellow-legged frog (Rana boylei). I have often found these frogs in the Willamette Valley and Coast Range Mountains in dense stands of maple and alder with a lush undergrowth of ferns, grasses, and other plants along the edges of a stream. In such situations, the red-legged frog will often wander far from water in the damp woods.

_10- (Rana A Spotted Frog pretiosa) - Protected Species

Although this frog has never been recorded from Curry County, it may occur in some of the streams and lakes of the area. Gordon (1939) records it from Myrtle Point in Coos County, only a short distance to the north.

Spotted frogs are found in the clear waters of streams, rivers, and lakes where there is little growth of cattails and algae. Although this amphibian occupied many areas west of the Cascades in former years, it has now been greatly reduced by the introduction of the bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana) which feeds upon it. Indeed, at this point in time, it seem to survive mainly at higher elevations where lower temperatures restrict the spread of bullfrogs. The clear, remote waters of the Kalmiopsis Wilderness Area would seem a likely place to harbor relict populations of the spotted frog.

Foothill Yellow-legged Frog (Rana boylei)

The yellow-legged frog and its larvae were found to be quite common throughout the open portions of the streams and rivers of Curry County. The species was observed at many localities along the Winchuck, Chetco, Pistol, and Rogue River drainages.

These frogs prefer clear running streams with rocky or gravelly bottoms and margins. They particularly favor openings along streams where there are sunny banks.

Bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana)

I saw no bullfrogs in Curry County during this survey. It does not seem to be as widely introduced there as elsewhere in western Oregon. In the past, I have observed the species in the Agness area.

These big frogs do not inhabit clear flowing streams and rivers, instead preferring sloughs, ponds, reservoirs, and warm lakes. Species Accounts -- Reptiles

Northwestern Pond Turtle (Clemys marmorata marmorata)

The pond turtle was observed at only one location in Curry County. Two adults were seen on floating logs in a large pond by the Gold Beach Rod and Gun Club, 7.5 miles up the North Bank Road along the Rogue River.

The only other record for Curry County also comes from the Rogue River for near the mouth of Silver Creek (Fitch 1936). The pond turtle may also occur along the Chetco River. Biologist Gene Stagner said he had heard a few reports of turtles in the area, but I was unable to confirm this.

These turtles require ponds, lakes, sloughs, or the slow-moving stretches of rivers and streams.

Northwestern Fence Lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis occidentalis)

These swift-moving lizards were common throughout the dryer, open country Curry The of County. fence lizard shows a marked preference for open, sunny, south-facing hillsides with plenty of rocks, stumps, and logs for basking stations and cover.

Some localities are: Carpenterville; Bull Gulch; Indian Rocks; Rocky Prairie; the Kalmiopsis Wilderness at Slide Creek, Taggarts Bar, Vulcan Peak, Gardner Mine, and Dry Butte; High Prairie; Quail Prairie; Mt. Emily; the confluence of the South Fork with the main Chetco River; Pine Point Campground on upper Hunter Creek; Red Flat; Flycatcher Spring; 1.3 miles up the North Bank Road 6 along the Rogue River; miles north of Agness; Oak Flat on the Illinois River; near China Bar on the Rogue River; and near Port Orford.

Northern Sagebrush Lizard (Sceloporus graciosus graciosus)

The sagebrush lizard is restricted to the most dry, rocky areas of the I county. encountered them most often in the typical habitat of exposed serpentine areas grown to manzanita and other shrubs with scattered

-12- ponderosa and Jeffrey pines and incense cedar. These "zippy" little lizards are the most commonly seen reptile in the Kalmiopsis Wilderness. Usually thought of as a reptile of the high desert country of central and eastern Oregon, it is interesting to note that populations I found in the Red Flat- upper Hunter Creek area are less than 10 miles from the ocean.

Tthe sagebrush lizard was observed in the Kalmiopsis Wilderness at Slide Creek, Taggarts Bar, Vulcan Peak, Vulcan Lake, Dry Butte, and near Salamander Lake. These lizards were also seen at Red Flat, Flycatcher Spring, and upper Hunter Creek around the Pine Point Campground. Storm (1962) reported finding the sagebrush lizard at Oak Flat on the Illinois River on 13 May 1961.

Oddly enough, all specimens from the Kalmiopsis Wilderness that I caught and examined closely were entirely lacking (or extremely faint) in the usual blue patches on the belly and throat. Sagebrush lizards from the Hunter Creek-Red Flat area all had the normal blue markings.

Western Skink (Eumeces skiltonianus skiltonianus)

Skinks were found to be fairly common in Curry County. Their favored habitat was usually one of either small, grassy openings or the edges of meadows where there are many rocks, logs, and bark pieces for cover. They are often especially common around old, abandoned homesteads where there is an abundance of old boards for hiding places. Skinks prefer the more open, sunny oak and pine woods, usually avoiding the dense, humid fir and cedar forests.

These brightly colored lizards were seen on the lower Winchuck River; near Carpenterville; Rocky Prairie; Indian Rocks; Bull Gulch; Gardner Ridge; High Prairie; Vulcan Lake; Dry Butte; near Flycatcher Spring; Red Flat; upper Hunter Creek at the Pine Point Campground; near Gold Beach; and at Oak Flat on the Illinois River. Past records are for 6 miles north of Agness; 1 mile west of Lobster Creek; near China Bar on the Rogue River; upper Elk River; and near Port Orford.

While working a slope below an old, fallen down barn, 4.9 miles up the Gardner Ridge Road, I found three female skinks that were each guarding a

-13- clutch of eggs. All three were within 6 to 8 ft of each other under rocks. One clutch contained six eggs, one seven, and the other four. This was on 9 July 1982. Another female with five eggs was observed under a rock in High Prairie on 10 July 1982.

Oregon Alligator Lizard (Gerrhonotus multicarinatus scincicauda)

These large lizards were seen at many localities, mainly in either the dryer, southern part of the county or the interior canyons and mountains. They inhabit the dryer, open oak and pine woodlands, usually where there are clumps of poison oak and other such brush. Logs, bark, boards, and rocks that are used for cover are other essential components of their habitat.

Localities for this species are near Carpenterville; Rocky Prairie; Indian Rocks; near the mouth of the South Fork of the Chetco River; 3 miles up Forest Service Road 376 along the Chetco River; the Vulcan Lake area; near Gold Beach; between Silver and Lobster Creeks along the Rogue River; 6 miles north of Agness; near China Bar on the Rogue River; and Oak Flat on the Illinois River.

Northern Alligator Lizard (Gerrhonotus coeruleus principis)

The northern alligator lizard prefers slightly more moist conditions than the Oregon alligator lizard and is usually encountered in the more forested and mountainous sections of the county. They are generally found around meadows and small clearings where there are logs, bark, boards, and rocks for cover.

Localities for this species in Curry County are: 3 miles east of Brookings; 4.9 miles up the Gardner Ridge Road; Rocky Prairie; Bull Gulch; near Flycatcher Spring; Silver Creek and Lobster Creek along the Rogue River; Agness; near China Bar on the Rogue River; Port Orford, and on Dry Butte at the western edge of the Kalmiopsis Wilderness Area.

-14- Rubber Boa (Charina bottae)

These small, unusual boas were seen at three different localities: a small specimen was found under a rock in High Prairie; another 4.9 miles up the Gardner Ridge Road; and two juveniles were found dead on the road I mile south of Carpenterville. In the past, I've also encountered rubber boas on Indian ROCAS and near Flycatcher Spring. There is also an old record from southeast of Port Orford near Elk River. From talking with the local residents throughout Curry County, I gained the impression that the rubber boa is quite widespread throughout the area.

The edges of meadows or small, grassy glade$ in coniferous forests or oak woodlands where there are plenty of rotting logs and stumps for cover seem to be the rubber boa's favored haunts, especially if a stream is nearby.

Northwestern Ringneck Snake (Diadophis punctatus occidentalis)

These small, beautiful snakes were seen at two localities: one was found under a rock at the edge of the big hillside meadow on the east side of Indian Rocks; the other was crawling across Forest Service Road 376, 7.5 miles south of High Prairie. In the past, I have also collected the ringneck snake 10 miles up the Chetco river; at Rocky Prairie; and at Oak Flat on the Illinois River.

Fitch (1936) recorded this species along the Rogue River 1 mile east of Lobster Creek and I mile west of Lobster Creek, and at Paradise Bar. Storm (1962) reports it from 6 miles north of Agness.

The ringneck snake is found beneath rocks, logs, bark, and boards, usually in mixed oak and conifer woods. It usually avoids the extremely dense, moist fir and cedar forests, basically not ranging further north along the Oregon coast than the Coos Bay area (at least as far as present records indicate). Snake (Contia A Sharp-tailed tenuis) - Protected Species

No specimens of this little, worm-like snake were found during this project. As far as my records indicate, it is known from Curry County at only two localities, both described below.

In April of 1972, I found a juvenile sharp-tailed snake under a small rock at Oak Flat on the Illinois River of inland Curry County. The general habitat was open, grassy meadows with scattered rocks and logs. White oaks, manzanita, poison oak, and clumps of blackberry grew around the openings. Storm (1962) also reported finding a snake of this species in the same general area. This was a 14-inch long specimen that was taken from beneath a small oak log on 13 May 1961.

On 20 July 1978, herpetologist Doug Knutsen found a large adult Contia dead on the North Bank Road of the Chetco River, 8.4 miles east of its intersection with Highway 101. On the upper side of the road is the Redwood Nature Trail area with a mixture of redwoods, Douglas fir, broadleaf maple, red alder, Oregon myrtle, tanoak, rhododendrons, salal, and various species of ferns. Below the road is a steep bank that drops away to the river.

As sharp-tailed snakes are known to inhabit the redwood areas of northern California, it appears that they follow this habitat north into the limited redwood forests of Curry County. However, these snakes are encountered most frequently in oak woodlands (such as the Oak Flat site). Although the sharp- tailed snake was not found among the white oaks of the Carpenterville-Indian Rocks area during this inventory, I still feel that there is a strong likeli- hood that they may occur there.

Surface activity periods for Contia in Oregon are mainly April and October, although these periods may be more extended in humid coastal Curry County. During these times in early spring and autumn, sharp-tailed snakes can be found under rocks (particularly sedimentary), logs, boards, and loose The bark. most favorable conditions for finding Contia seem to be on warm, humid days following a rainy period. As soon as surface conditions turn hot

-16- and dry in late spring, these reptiles become subterranean until the autumn rains allow them to resurface.

Considering that the Chetco specimen was found dead on a road in July, it may be possible that sharp-tailed snakes become nocturnally active during the summer. In an unpublished 1969 report submitted to nr. @tpven rrnec Southern Oregon State College, former biology student Mike Lais wrote of a finding Contia dead on a street in Medford, Jackson County, Oregon, on 30 1969 June (Lais 1969). Fitch (1936) described how a sharp-tailed snake from Jackson County that he kept in a terrarium "was secretive and seldom showed itself during the daytime, but it became active and crawled about the cage Both after dark." of these accounts lend some additional support to a theory of nocturnal activity.

It appears that sharp-tailed snakes, though not usually found at many widespread locations, often occur as quite large colonies in some places. They seem be to quite gregarious. Many writers report finding several at a time under one board or log, as has been my experience with sharp-tailed snakes in the Willamette Valley.

Western Yellow-bellied Racer (Coluber constrictor mormon)

The racer was only observed in the more open areas of the county, chiefly . i n the exposed brushy and grassy areas along the Chetco River and in the meadows and oak woods around Carpenterville and Indian Rocks. Particularly favored are situations of rocks and logs on the edge of tangled bushes or blackberry vines. As soon as they feel threatened, these snakes seek refuge in the bushes and thorny vines.

Localities for the racer are Bull Gulch; near Carpenterville; Rocky Prairie; around Indian Rocks (very common at this site); near the mouth of the- South Fork of the Chetco River; and on Slide Creek at the east edge of the Kalmiopsis Wilderness Area. It has also been recorded in the past from Oak Flat on the Illinois River of interior Curry County.

-17- Pacific Gopher Snake (Pituophis melanoleucus catenifer)

The gopher snake was not exceedingly common in Curry County (by comparison to the interior Rogue Valley). They were seen at only four localities, all at least 4 miles or more inland from the coast. These large constrictors prefer the more open and dry areas such as the grassy "prairies" and meadows, oak woodlands, or exposed ridges grown to brush and tanoak.

Two juveniles were observed near the mouth of the South Fork of the Chetco River, and two adults were found crossing Forest Service Road 376 along the Chetco river, 7.5 mile south of High Prairie. Another specimen was found dead on the North Bank Road along the Chetco River, 6.3 miles from its intersection with Highway 101. The gopher snake found closest to the coast came from 4.7 miles up the North Bank Road along the Rogue River.

The owner of the Indian Rocks Ranch, Stanley Colegrove, told me he had seen gopher snakes on his property, but I did not find any specimens to verify this report.

Fitch (1936) reports finding a gopher snake "in pasture land on the coast near Gold Beach." Storm (1962) gives a record for near Agness.

California Mountain Kingsnake (Lampropeltis zonata)

The California mountain kingsnake is known from Curry County by only two records: one specimen (listed in Oregon State University records) comes from the general vicinity of Silver Creek on the north side of the Rogue River; the other was taken from beneath a log on a slope at the north end of Oak Flat above the Illinois River on 13 May 1961 (Storm 1962).

Unverified reports come from the Pine Point Campground area along Hunter Creek, and the Red Flat-Flycatcher Spring vicinity. This was related to me in 1978 by Earl Southard, a biologist with the Forest Service in Gold Beach. He said the mountain kingsnake was quite rare and he had heard of only a few reports of "coral snakes" that issued from that area. The only other

-18- kingsnakes he knew of were always found further inland up the Rogue River around Agness.

Biologist Gene Stagner also told me of a hiker who reported seeing "a snake with red, black, and white rings around it" in the vicinity of Dry Butte at the western edge of the Kalmiopsis Wilderness Area during thp snrinq of 1982.

Mountain kingsnakes inhabit the pine and oak woodlands of the foothills and mountains, usually in close proximity to a stream and rock outcrops with brushy areas of manzanita and poison oak.

Southwestern Oregon is apparently an area of intergradation between the subspecies multicincta (the Sierra mountain kingsnake) and zonata (the St. Helena mountain kingsnake). According to Zweifel (1952), the separation is based to a large extent on the number of red bands that meet dorsally. The specimens. I have examined from Oregon and south-central Washington all seem to display quite a bit of variation in this respect.

Valley Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis fitchi)

This subspecies of the common garter snake group was encountered throughout the county. It was observed in almost all habitats, but most frequently near water.

Some localities for the valley garter snake are: along the Winchuck River; Brookings; 2 Harbor; miles east of Brookings; Gardner Ridge; Loeb State Redwood Park; Nature Trail area; near the mouth of the South Fork of the Chetco River; Vulcan Lake; Quail Prairie; Carpenterville; High Prairie; Rocky Prairie; Indian Rocks; Bull Gulch; along the Pistol River; Hunter Creek; near Flycatcher Spring; Gold Beach; 4.5 miles up the North Bank Road along the Rogue River; 10 miles east of Gold Beach on the south bank of the Rogue River; mouth the of Lobster Creek; Oak Flat on the Illinois River; along the Elk River; Port Orford; and upper Floras Creek.

_19- Coast Garter Snake (Thamnophis elegans terrestris)

A subspecies of the western terrestrial garter snake group, this rusty- colored snake was be not found to exceedingly common. They were usually seen in brushy areas or grassy openings on the headlands along the coast.

The coast garter snake was observed 3 miles south of Harbor; at the edge Mill of Beach in Brookings; at the intersection of the Gardner Ridge Road with North Bank Road the along the Chetco River; near Loeb State Park; at the mouth of South Fork the of the Chetco River; and near the community of Pistol River.

Old 2 records for miles west of Agness, and Solitude Bar and Burns Creek on the Rogue River (Fitch 1936) are probably of the subspecies.elegans (the mountain garter snake).

Oregon Garter Snake (Thamnophis couchi hydrophilus)

Like most members of the aquatic garter snake group, this subspecies is never found far from water, preferring rocky streams and rivers. I usually associate them as sharing the same habitat as the foothill yellow-legged frog, which constitutes one of their major food sources.

The Oregon garter snake was observed to be fairly common along the water courses of Curry county, the local people calling them "water snakes."

Some localities for this species are: along the Winchuck River; Brookings; Redwood Nature Trail area; Little Redwood Forest Camp; near the mouth of the South Fork of the Chetco River; in a pond on Dry Butte at the western edge of the Kalmiopsis Wilderness Area; at the mouth of Lobster Creek; and at Oak Flat on the Illinois River.

(1936) Fitch records the Oregon garter snake from Burns Creek on the Rogue River.

-20- Northwestern Garter Snake (Thamophis ordinoides)

Without doubt, this is the most common reptile of the southern Oregon coast. It is quite literally encountered everywhere in all habitats. The northwestern garter snake is especially common in moist, grassy situations where it can find its favorite food sources, slugs and worms.

Some localities are: along the Winchuck River; Harbor; Brookings; Loeb State Park; Gardner Ridge; Redwood Nature Trail area; Little Redwood Forest Camp; near the mouth of the South Fork of the Chetco River; Vulcan Lake Trail-, High Prairie; Quail Prairie; Harris Beach; Carpenterville; Rocky Prairie; Indian Rocks; Bull Gulch; Lone Ranch Beach; along the Pistol River; lower Hunter Creek; Pine Point Campground; Red Flat; Flycatcher Spring; Gold Beach; 1.5 miles up the North Bank Road along the Rogue River; Lobster Creek; Silver Creek; near Agness; Oak Flat on the Illinois River; along Elk Creek; Port Orford; and along Floras Creek.

Northern Pacific Rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis oreganus)

Although no rattlesnakes were encountered during the course of this inventory, I have found them in the area in the past. They mainly inhabit the dryer, rocky interior sections of the county, but do approach the coast closely along the Chetco and Rogue Rivers. The rattler is quite common throughout the Kalmiopsis Wilderness Area.

Some localities for Curry County are Taggarts Bar and the Gardner Mine in the Kalmiopsis Wilderness; near the mouth of the South Fork of the Chetco River; the vicinity of Silver Creek on the north bank of the Rogue River; and at Oak Flat on the Illinois River.

I have also had unconfirmed reports for rattlesnakes on Mt. Emily; High Prairie; the upper parts of the Pistol River; and the upper part of the Elk River.

-21- DISCUSSION

With its large variety of herptofauna and diverse, often lush habitats, I feel I only "scratched the surface" of Curry County during the allotted four weeks of this inventory. However, a good portion of the species known to inhabit the area were located and, alonq with historical recordq And unconfirmed reports, enough data should be offered here to give a good understanding of their distributions and habitat needs.

As stated earlier, of the four species that received special attention during one was this survey, only found -- the sagebrush lizard. Although restricted mainly to a few dry, brushy, interior portions of the county, these little lizards are the most common (or at least visible) reptile where they do occur. As most of the sagebrush lizard populations are located at relatively remote sites, with the largest concentrations being in the already protected Kalmiopsis Wilderness Area, I feel these reptiles are quite secure at the An present. additional plus in their favor is their choice of open, brushy habitat which will receive little or no attention from the logging industry.

The California slender salamander, however, does inhabit some locations in close proximity to humans and could run into problems in certain areas. I have found it in the past on the Indian Rocks Ranch near Carpenterville. This ranch has good development potential with its open, grassy ridges and scattered oaks with excellent ocean views. The slender salamander inhabits the more forested, mountainous areas as well, and is probably more secure there. Just how adversely logging operations affect this little salamander is unclear at this time.

The California mountain kingsnake will not be affected by developments near Brookings and Gold Beach as it inhabits the dry, interior pine woods of the Rogue and Illinois canyons and the Kalmiopsis Wilderness. It is also reported to occur in the Red Flat area which, I am told, is under scrutiny by mining firms. Depending upon the extent of mining operations, if an isolated population exists there, it could possibly run into trouble.

-22- The sharp-tailed snake is presently known in Curry County from only two widely separated localities, and there is not enough data to gain a clear picture of its overall distribution, habitat needs, and vulnerability to development. The Oak Flat population is in a relatively remote area, so is probably safe enough. The dead specimen found on the North Bank Road along the Chetco River indicates that the sharp-tailed snakes there inhabit the red-WrOodu forest on the slope above I'lle road. S ince this hillside is contained within the protected Redwood Nature Trail area, there is little danger posed to this population. However, future field work may disclose sharp-tailed snake colonies in the hills at the edge of Brookings and Gold Beach, which would be a different matter.

During the course of this project, I found several localities that had significant populations of some of the herp species unique to the area. One site in particular is worth mentioning as it is on private land; this is the Indian Rocks Ranch, owned by Stanley Colegrove. The large holding of several hundred acres is located about 2 miles south of Carpenterville at the headwaters of the North Fork of the Chetco River, approximately 3 miles inland from the ocean. It has a variety of habitats ranging from thick, coniferous forests through oak woodlands with large, open grassy ridges. Rock outcrops and old, decomposing logs and stumps are scattered throughout, interlaced with small streams, affording ideal micro-habitats for many species. The California slender salamander, Del Norte salamander, painted salamander, as well as the more common forms such as the fence lizard, Oregon and northern alligator lizards, skink, ringneck snake, racer, and rubber boa are all found there. Additionally, the habitat on the ranch looks very suitable for the protected sharp-tailed snake, which may occur there as well. This ranch has prime development potential, so may bear watching in the future.

Overall, my impression of the status of the herptofauna of Curry County is good. For the most part, real estate developments are being confined to the close proximity of Brookings and Gold Beach, while most of the native reptiles and amphibians inhabit the more remote foothills and mountains at a relatively safe distance from human encroachment.

-23- ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The historical material in this report comes from my own personal files 15 of years and from such sources as the biology departments of several Oregon colleges and universities, trained biologists, and other knowledgeable naturalists.

I am indebted to all those who provided me with information on past collections, particularly Gene Stagner, a fisheries biologist with the Department of the Interior in Brookings, who was very helpful in giving me considerable locality data he had acquired, and who was kind enough to assist me in the field for a day.

REFERENCES

Fitch, H.S. 1936. Amphibians and reptiles of the Rogue River Basin. American Midland Naturalist 17:634-652.

Gordon, K. 1939. The amphibia and reptilia of Oregon. Oregon State Monograph.

Lais, M.P. 1969. Specific habitat locations of herpetofauna in Jackson County, Oregon. Unpublished report submitted to the biology department of Southern Oregon State College.

St. John, A.D. 1980. Knowing Oregon reptiles. Salem Audubon Society.

Stebbins, R.C. 1966. A field guide to western reptiles and amphibians. Peterson Field Guide Series, Houghton Mifflin Co.

Storm, R.M. 1962. Oregon Herpetological Newsletter. No. 19.

Zweifel, R.G. 1952. Pattern variation and evolution of the mountain kingsnake. Copeia 3:152-168.

-24- Appendix A. Bibliography of Oregon herpetology

Behler, J.L. and F. King. 1979. The Audubon Society field guide to North American reptiles and amphibians. Alfred A. Knopf, Inc.

Klauber, L.M. 1956. Rattlesnakes: their habits, life histories, and influence on mankind, 2 volumes. University of California Press. Shaw, C.E. and S. CaInDbell. 1974. @nakp@ of the American West. A14 re' A.Knopf, Inc.

Smith, H.M. 1946. Handbook of lizards of the United States and Canada. Comstock Publishing Co.

Stebbins, C. 1954. Amphibians and reptiles of western North America. McGraw Hill Book Co.

Van Denburgh, J. 1922. The reptiles of western North America, 2 volumes. California Academy of Science.

Wright, A. and A. Wright. 1957. Handbook of snakes of the United States and Canada, 2 volumes. Comstock Publishing Co.

-25- Appendix B. Distribution maps indicating unconfirmed reports, historical records, and localities found during this inventory

Key to the characters used on the distribution maps;

0 = Records made during this inventory 0 = Historical records X? = Unconfirmed reports

-27- 11.1.1 M..

0.00K I 1.6

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OLP .'AC ID

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SHARP-TAILED SNAKE WESTERN YELLOW-BELLIED RACER (Contia tenuis) (Coluber constrictor mormon) L)IL ,uoz s LI to(Toidin -S NFon4 . (.Aajpaju3 snonaLouetam I 3NVNSDNIN NI:VlNnow VINHOAIIVO 3NVNS H3HdO9 JlJIJVd

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