Reptile and Amphibian Monitoring and Assessment on the Beaver Island Archipelago

November 2015

Prepared for: Conservation Resource Alliance Bayview Professional Centre 10850 Traverse Highway, Suite 1111 Traverse City MI 49684

Prepared by: Herpetological Resource and Management, LLC P.O. Box 110 Chelsea, MI 48118 www.HerpRMan.com (313) 268-6189

Suggested Citation: Herpetological Resource and Management. 2015. Reptile and Amphibian Community Assessment and Evaluation for the Beaver Island Archipelago. Herpetological Resource and Management. Chelsea, MI. 170 pp.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgements ...... 2 Executive Summary ...... 3 Site Locations and Descriptions ...... 6 Beaver Island ...... 7 Garden Island ...... 16 Trout Island ...... 16 Whiskey Island ...... 17 High Island ...... 17 Hog Island ...... 18 Methods ...... 18 Herpetofaunal Surveys ...... 18 Data Collection ...... 19 Results ...... 19 Beaver Island (2013-2015) ...... 20 Garden Island (2013-2014) ...... 31 Trout Island (2014) ...... 32 Whiskey Island (2014) ...... 33 High Island (2014) ...... 33 Hog Island (2015) ...... 34 Discussion ...... 34 Recommendations ...... 39 The Archipelago ...... 39 Beaver Island ...... 41 Garden Island ...... 51 Trout Island ...... 51 Whiskey Island ...... 51 High Island ...... 52 Hog Island ...... 52 Conclusion ...... 53 Tables ...... 47 Maps...... 59 Photos ...... 88 Appendix...... 164 Herpetofauna Species Summaries ...... 164 References ...... 170

Acknowledgements

Financial assistance for this project was provided, in part, through a National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Sustain Our Great Lakes Grant given to the Conservation Resource Alliance in cooperation with the Little Traverse Conservancy. We would like to also thank our HRM team for their help in conducting field work and preparing this document. Special thanks to Pam Grassmick for her logistical help and transportation to islands as well as all the island residents (seasonal and permanent) who provided data and help protect the islands unique herpetofauna.

Executive Summary

In 2013 Herpetological Resource and Management, LLC (HRM) was contracted by

Conservation Resource Alliance (CRA) to conduct amphibian and reptile (herpetofauna) monitoring within the Beaver Island Archipelago. The primary objectives of these surveys are to establish a baseline of current species presence, evaluate the availability of suitable habitat for herpetofauna on the archipelago, and monitor herpetofauna use in areas where invasive plant species have been removed or where present. In addition to monitoring the herpetofauna populations on the Beaver

Island Archipelago, the results of these surveys are intended to guide restoration actions to be taken in the archipelago as well as provide a metric from which the success of future restoration efforts can be evaluated. Inventories were conducted over 21 days in July 2013, July 2014, and August 2015 and included thirty-two assessment areas in the archipelago on Beaver Island, Garden Island, High

Island, Hog Island, Trout Island, and Whiskey Island.

The following summarizes major findings of this project:

 Assessed a total of twenty nine separate sites throughout the archipelago.

 During 2013 monitoring, a total of 17 species of herpetofauna including 8 reptiles, 9

amphibians, and 4 Species of Greatest Conservation Need were observed.

 In 2014, a total of 19 herpetofaunal species including 9 reptiles, 10 amphibians, and 5

Species of Greatest Conservation Need were documented.

 2015 surveys resulted in a total of 15 species of herpetofauna including 8 reptiles, 7

amphibians, and 3 Species of Greatest Conservation Need.

 Three previously unreported herpetofauna species (Northern Spring Peeper, Spotted

Salamander, and Eastern Snapping Turtle) were documented on High Island in 2014.

 HRM confirmed the presence of 4 previously reported but unconfirmed species on Hog

Island in 2015 and also documented the presence of 4 additional species not previously

known to occur on the island.

 Only one species historically known (Bullfrog) was not observed the course of this project,

providing further evidence for its potential extirpation from the archipelago. Habitat

assessments confirmed the potential for reintroducing populations of the amphibian to the

islands.

 Management recommendations for improving herpetofauna habitat and general ecosystem

health across the archipelago including invasive species control, subsidized predator

management, and habitat restoration with the creation of nesting areas, basking structures,

hibernacula, and cover objects.

This project represents the most extensive and comprehensive herpetofaunal monitoring survey conducted on the Beaver Island Archipelago to date based on area of the assessment. This region has been identified as a hotspot of biodiversity among Great Lakes islands and results from these surveys can be used to monitor the long-term health of the archipelago and serve as a baseline of species richness and spatial distribution for future restoration.

Introduction

Amphibians and reptiles are recognized as key bioindicators (gauges of environmental health), due in part to their high sensitivity to environmental pollutants and habitat disturbance.

Consequently, assessment of herpetofauna abundance and species richness within an area can reveal much about the health of the ecosystem and can point to habitat quality concerns that may not be detected by water quality or floristic assessments (Cooperrider, Boyd et al. 1986; Welsh and Droege

2001; Micacchion 2004; Guilfoyle 2010). Overall amphibian and reptile presence, represented age classes, spatial distribution, and relative abundance can be important tools in identifying the need for, and success of, habitat restoration projects (Harding 1997; Mifsud 2014).

The Beaver Island Archipelago has been identified as an important area of biodiversity within the Great Lakes (Hatt 1948; Placyk Jr and Gillingham 2002). The islands are not only home to several rare species of herpetofauna, but they also support several endangered plants, insects, and birds (Hatt 1948; Placyk Jr and Gillingham 2002; Leuck II and Wujek 2007). Similar to many coastal ecosystems throughout the Great Lakes, invasive species represent a significant threat to the Beaver

Island Archipelago; particularly invasive plants (e.g. common reed (Phragmites australis subsp. australis)) that have the potential to out-compete native species and drastically alter natural communities (Meyer 2003; Mifsud 2014). Raccoons were absent from the archipelago until they were intentionally introduced to several islands in Lake Michigan (Hatt 1948; Vigmostad, Cutbert et al. 2007). These mesopredators are known to inflict considerable damage on herpetofauna populations, especially turtles (Congdon, Breitenbach et al. 1987; Harding 1997; Geller 2012;

Herpetological Resource and Management 2012).

In 2013 Herpetological Resource and Management, LLC (HRM) was contracted by

Conservation Resource Alliance (CRA) to conduct reptile and amphibian surveys within the Beaver

Island Archipelago. HRM conducted monitoring through 2015 to help better determine the species richness and spatial distribution of herpetofauna populations on Beaver Island as well as many of the outlying islands including High, Garden, Hog, Squaw, Trout and Whiskey. The presence of amphibians and reptiles will be used as important factors in determining restoration measures that can be taken to improve overall habitat conditions in the archipelago. Historical data were examined and incorporated in an effort to provide more comprehensive spatial data as well as comparison between pre- and post-restoration conditions on the islands.

Site Locations and Descriptions

The project area consists of multiple parcels within the Beaver Island Archipelago (Map 1).

Thirty-two different parcels have been surveyed to date with nine sites sampled in 2013, seventeen in 2014 and six sites in 2015. Islands within the archipelago that have been assessed between 2013 and 2015 include Beaver, Garden, Trout, Whiskey, High, and Hog. Lake Michigan water levels varied appreciably between survey years and affected the available habitat for assessment. In 2013 and 2014, levels were lower, exposing significant additional coastal marsh habitat while in 2015 water was noticeably higher, eliminating much of the shoreline communities.

The Beaver Island Archipelago includes eight larger islands and several smaller ones, located within Charlevoix County in the northern portion of Lake Michigan near the city of Charlevoix.

Geologically the islands consist of primarily limestone and sandstone (Hatt 1948). Many limestone reefs reach near the surface of the waters surrounding the islands within the archipelago. The islands have a diverse range of habitat types including Great Lakes coastal marsh, inland lake, conifer

swamp, ridge-swale complex, northern forests, grassland, and old field. Because of their diversity of habitats, the islands can support a relatively large variety of flora and fauna. Beaver Island includes the village of St. James, which is the only city on the archipelago, although houses and cottages are present throughout the island and one home is located on the privately owned Trout Island.

Beaver Island

Barney’s Lake Nature Preserve

Barney’s Lake Nature Preserve is a 120 acre parcel located in the northern half of Beaver

Island (Map 3). It is accessible from Barney’s Lake Road which bisects the property. The preserve is owned by the Little Traverse Conservancy and encompasses a wide variety of natural communities

(Photos 1, 4-6). The property encircles a 45 acre lake that is surrounded by high quality bog, marsh, and conifer swamp. Barney’s Lake Nature Preserve also supports old field as well as high quality upland forest. The eastern portion of the preserve where the old homestead was located contains a large pond with emergent marsh and tall sedges surrounding it (Photo 6).

Petritz Nature Preserve

Located in northern Beaver Island is the George and Althea Petritz Nature Preserve, a 27 acre parcel owned by the Little Traverse Conservancy (Map 4). The parcel consists of hilly topography with predominately mixed conifer and hardwood forest that transitions to sandy beach and coastal marsh along Lake Michigan (Photos 7-9). Two species of federally protected plants, the

Lake Huron tansy (Tanacetum huronense), and Pitcher’s thistle (Cirsium pitcheri) are known to occur at this location.

Gull Harbor Nature Preserve

Gull Harbor Nature Preserve is located off of Gull Harbor Drive in the northeast portion of

Beaver Island just southeast from Petritz Nature Preserve (Map 4). This property is owned by the

Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) and is separated from Lake Michigan by Gull

Harbor Drive except when the road is seasonally inundated. This parcel supports a coastal marsh, conifer swamp, and mixed upland forest, as well as a pond that is the remnant of the site’s historic use as a gravel pit (11-13).

Egg Lake

Egg Lake is an acidic lake that includes a high quality bog surrounding the entirety of its shores and encompasses both privately owned land and land owned by the MDNR (Map 5). The bog (Photo

15) supports a wide variety of wetland plants ranging from cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon), highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum), and sedges to carnivorous plants such as pitcher plant

(Sarracenia purpurea) (Photo 16) and sundew ( Drosera spp.). Parts of this parcel include northern hardwood forest that transitions into conifer swamp. There is old field present that is a remnant of the homestead once located on the parcel. Similar old field habitat is also present due to the recent clearing of woodland to make room for a motel which was never built (Photo 17).

Johnny Martin’s Trail

Johnny Martin’s Trail is accessible from East Side Drive and includes a narrow gravel road and trail that leads through both state land (MDNR) and private property (Map 6). This site consists of a mosaic of upland and wetland habitats including northern forest dominated by hemlock and aspen.

Ridge-swale complexes with black ash are abundant (Photo 19). Johnny Martin’s Trail also contains

a gravel pit which is actively excavated as well as used by locals as a dumping ground and firing range (Photo 20-21).

Lake Geneserath

The largest and deepest lake on Beaver Island, Lake Geneserath, is 489 acres in area and reaches up to 50 feet in depth (Map 7). The lake is surrounded on one side by state land managed by the

MDNR and includes a public campground, while the other side is privately owned. In 2013, the southern portion of the lake and surrounding landscape was sampled. Habitat communities on this parcel include emergent and shrub marsh along the edge of the lake (Photo 24), which transitions into conifer swamp and a second growth aspen-paper birch and mixed coniferous forest (Photo 26).

Ephemeral streams and vernal pools are also present throughout the area, and in portions of upland woods a dense understory of red maple is present.

Little Sand Bay Nature Preserve

Located along the coast of Lake Michigan on the eastern side of Beaver Island, Little Sand Bay

Nature Preserve is a 60 acre parcel owned by the Little Traverse Conservancy (Map 8). This site is made up of several community types (Photos 27-31). Near the lake, this parcel contains coastal marsh and long linear inundated swales which transition into a dense conifer swamp. Within the swamp are several small streams as well as a large pond on the south end. West of the conifer swamp the landscape transitions into a field with portions dominated by juniper. This field also contains some old orchard trees and gravel pits, as well as a historical farm house.

Font Lake- North Hidden Valley Nature Trail

The North Hidden Valley Nature Trail is on the northern side Beaver Island near Donegal Bay and runs along the western edge of Font Lake with a majority of the site located on private property

(Map 9). Upland areas contain rolling topography with a mosaic of coniferous, hardwood, and poplar species and a sparse shrub layer dominated by saplings (Photo 32). High quality forested wetlands near the lake include abundant skunk-cabbage and diverse fern species (Photo 37). Wetland communities present along the lake contain various sedges and sphagnum moss, as well as tamarack

(Larix laricina), cranberry, highbush blueberry, Labrador-tea (Rhododendron groenlandicum) and leatherleaf (Chamaedaphne calyculata) (Photo 38).

Lucas Property/Big Barn

Owned by the Lucas family, this parcel extends from Pebble Beach Road to Conn’s Cove and includes a house, barn, old field and beach access (Map 10). Habitat at this site consists of a large, open field (likely an old pasture based on the presence of agronomic weeds) with a high diversity of native species including shrubby cinquefoil (Dasiphora fruticosa), alder-leaved buckthorn (Rhamnus alnifolia) and indian paintbrush (Castilleja coccinea) (Photo 41). The field transitions into a small emergent marsh bordered by conifer swamp and the beach contains cobble with sparse rushes present (Photo 42).

Con’s Cove

Con’s Cove is directly south and adjacent to the Lucas family property, and includes similar coastal habitat, although it is more densely wooded in the western portion of the property (Map 10). The coastal marsh in this parcel contains more open water and emergent vegetation than the Lucas

property to the north (Photo 45). Adjacent to the marsh is a coniferous swamp with a dense understory of fern species (Photo 47). Remaining portions of the property include young ash and elm-dominated forests (Photo 48) with dense herbaceous groundcover and pockets of old field which continue until the parcel boundary at East Side Drive.

Luney’s Pointe

Luney’s Pointe is located along the eastern coast of Beaver Island (Map 11). The site has a rich botanical diversity with mixed forest of coniferous, hardwood, and poplar species, which transitions into coastal marsh with beach ridge swales extending along the shoreline (Photos 49-50). This site also supports the rare and federally threatened Pitcher’s thistle and Lake Huron tansy, as well as the federally endangered Michigan monkey-flower (Mimulus michiganensis) (Photo 51).

Vesty’s Field

Vesty’s Field is an old homestead property which was originally managed for cultivating potatoes, wheat, and rye and is now owned by Pam Grassmick (Map 12). The property contains a variety of habitat types including old agricultural field (Photo 55), mixed coniferous forest, alder thickets, aspen and cedar stands, and emergent marsh with shrub layer.

Andy’s Trail

Andy’s Trail is located near the southwestern tip of Beaver Island on MDNR property and is adjacent to a large active gravel pit (Map 13, Photo 59). The trail occurs through upland habitat with a tall bluff that includes a complex of northern hardwoods with a fairly open understory, and transitions to a more coniferous dominated community as it approaches the shoreline with coastal

marsh (Photos 60-62, 64). This area supports several rare plant species including the federally threatened Pitcher’s thistle, dwarf lake iris (Iris lacustris) (Photo 63), and Lake Huron tansy.

Cranberry Bog

Cranberry Bog is a publicly accessible site located on the southern end of Beaver Island near

Appleby’s Point (Map 14). There is a trail leading to the bog, which contains grassland/meadow vegetation surrounded by upland deciduous communities that transition into mixed coniferous forest (Photo 67). Adjacent to the bog is a small area of conifer swamp (Photo 68). The bog contains Michigan holly (Ilex verticillata) and mountain holly (Ilex mucronata) on the fringe with leatherleaf and cranberry mixed with emergent sedges in the interior (Photos 69-70).

Iron Ore Bay

Iron Ore Bay is on the south coast of Beaver Island just west of Cranberry Bog (Map 15). The site consists predominately of coastal marsh with single residence homes adjacent to the north and a public beach to the south with no aquatic vegetation present in the shoreline (Photo 73). A majority of the site is sandy and thinly vegetated with shallow beach ridge swales vegetated with several species of sedges and rushes also present (Photo 74). Rare plant species, including Pitcher’s thistle and Lake Huron tansy, occur along the sandy shoreline. The site is named for the Iron Ore Creek, which is a small stream that extends northeast from the Bay (Photo 76).

Martin’s Bluff

Martin’s Bluff is located on the west shoreline of Beaver Island and incudes MDNR land with public access and a walking trail (Map 16). Included in the assessment of Martin’s Bluff were portions of additional public property west of the bluff adjacent to East Side Drive. This area contained an

inundated dune swale and emergent wetland (Photo 77). Adjacent uplands are dominated by coniferous communities with some hardwoods and poplars present as well. The bluff is located east of the road with the highest point including a stand of paper birch (Photo 79-80). The bottom of the bluff includes a small seep along the shoreline which also contains emergent wetland with aquatic vegetation intermittently dispersed (Photo 81).

Tara’s Meadow

Located off West Side Road on Beaver Island is Tara’s Meadow, a large open old field owned by

Seamus Norgaard (Map 17). This site historically supported a sawmill and vegetation has grown over the piles of sawdust in the last twenty years. The remnants of an old building foundation are also present. Surrounded by northern hardwood forest, the old field habitat on this parcel includes various agronomic weeds as well as reindeer lichen (Cladonia) (Photos 83-84).

Big Field

Big Field is located on the southwest portion of Beaver Island and includes an open meadow with hilly topography and nutrient-poor soil (Map 18). Vegetation at this site is dominated by bracken fern with portions containing blueberry and various grasses. A road along the east side of this field separates it from Miller’s Marsh and mowed hiking paths are present throughout the site (Photo 87).

Black Hills Clearing

Black Hills Clearing is located in in central Beaver Island (Map 19). Historically the site supported maple forest, which was altered by farming practices. Purchased by the State of Michigan in 1958, the property has since undergone succession and now supports open field habitat with portions of

bare sand, lichens, herbaceous vegetation, as well as common juniper (Juniperus communis v. depressa) and white pine (Photo 91). Juniper and other woody species increase in density as to the northeast.

Karl J. Erber Nature Preserve

Karl J. Erber Nature Preserve is located in the southern third of Beaver Island along the eastern coast north of Lake Geneserath (Map 20). Established in 1993, the Preserve is operated by the Little

Traverse Conservancy and is open for recreational and educational purposes. The property is divided between a mixed coniferous and deciduous forest (Photo 95-96) with coastal wetland and dune-swales complexes (Photo 97-98). The majority of woody debris located on the ground consisted of white paper birch. Dense patches of coniferous tress were located throughout the mature growth forest that is generally more open.

McCauley’s Point

Located on the western shoreline of Beaver Island, McCauley’s point is located just south of

Donegal Bay (Map 21). Habitat in this parcel consisted of high quality coastal marsh and dunes with mixed coniferous and deciduous uplands adjacent (Photo 101-103). A trail that leads through the upland area to the coastal portion appears to be frequently used by island residents and visitors.

Orange Trail

Located in the central region of Beaver Island, just inland from the coast on the east side of the island, Orange trail is accessible near the Peaine Fire Station (Map 22). The trail passes through mixed upland forests (Photo 104) that at the head of the trail contain open understories with short bush blueberry growing along the fringe. As the trail progresses west, the forest becomes denser

with abundant woody debris. Just off trail a wetland area is present that transitions into a wet meadow and small emergent marsh, (Photo 105). Continuing west, the trail contains additional mixed uplands (Photo 107) with ridge swale complexes that appeared to contain water for most of the summer. The habitat transitions westward into a coniferous swamp.

Bonner’s Landing

Bonner’s Landing is located in the northern third of Beaver Island along the west shore and is owned and managed by the MDNR (Map 23). This area contained limited high quality emergent coastal marsh at the time of 2015 surveys (Photo 110-112). Adjacent uplands are dominated by mixed communities and include coniferous swamp in addition to hardwood forest. A small forested seep is extends through the upland community. At the time of survey, Pitcher’s Thistle was abundant along the coastline of this parcel.

Sweeney’s Swamp and Green Swamp

This site is located just east of McCauley’s Point Sweeney’s Swamp near the northwest coast of

Beaver Island (Map 24). A trail extends through mixed upland forest communities which transitions to an old field/meadow habitat (Photo 113). Continuing east, the trail leads to Sweeney’s Swamp, an emergent marsh with a fringe of wet meadow and bog associated vegetation including cranberry

(Photo 114). A small swath of upland forest separates Sweeney’s Swamp from Green Swamp, a larger emergent marsh with similar vegetative community structure to Sweeney’s Swamp, with more open water portions and submergent vegetation (Photo 115). Surveys conducted at this location were preliminary and additional visits would provide for more detailed habitat assessments.

Garden Island

The second largest island in the archipelago, Garden Island is 4,990 acres and is located 1.25 miles north of Beaver Island (Map 25). It contains a suite of habitat types including multiple wetland and upland communities, and several rare plant species. The island once supported a small, permanent population of both native people and European settlers and continues to serve as a native burial site

(Hatt 1948).

In 2013, part of Northcutt Bay as well as Garden Island Harbor were surveyed, including a small lake located on the east end of the island that supports a fringe of fen vegetation including several species of sundew, pitcher plant, various sedges and shrubby cinquefoil (Photo 95). In 2013, lake levels were noticeably low with abundant coastal marsh and exposed lake bed present. An area which previously supported wetland hydrology was dominated by shrubby cinquefoil and patches of red-osier dogwood (Cornus sericea).

In 2014, western portions of the island were sampled between Ninneegoe’s Bay and

Northcutt Bay, including Northcutt Trail, Harbor Trail, the Indian Cemetery, West Side Trail, and

Indian Harbor. Several community types were surveyed including the high quality coastal marsh located around Indian Harbor, coniferous and deciduous forest complexes, open field, inland emergent marsh, and floating bog (Photos 100-103).

Trout Island

Trout Island is privately owned by a single landowner and is the sixth largest island in the archipelago, located approximately 5.5 miles northwest of Beaver Island (Map 26). A conservation easement owned by Little Traverse Conservancy prevents development beyond the single home on the south shore of the island. The island includes Great Lakes coastal marsh, northern forest with a

mixture of conifers and hardwoods, and sand and gravel beach dominated by rough-leaf dogwood

(Cornus rugosa) (Photos 107-109). Portions of the island also include exposed limestone cobble. A runway for small planes, bisecting the entire island from the northwest to the southeast, is continuously mowed and includes short old field vegetation (Photo 110).

Whiskey Island

The fifth largest island in the archipelago, Whiskey Island is 129 acres and located 4 miles north of

Beaver Island (Map 27). The island includes Great Lakes coastal marsh, northern forest with a mixture of conifers and hardwoods, and sand and gravel beach (Photos 113, 117). The eastern corner of the island supports nesting colonies of several seabirds including gulls and double-crested cormorants (Photo 114).

High Island

High Island is located 3.5 miles west of Beaver Island and with 3,495 acres it is the third largest island in the archipelago (Map 28). It is owned and managed by the MDNR and includes numerous unmaintained trails throughout the island. Areas surveyed on the island in 2014 contained a variety of both aquatic and terrestrial natural communities. Aquatic habitat included a large inland lake (Lake Maria), emergent marsh, and scrub-shrub marsh, while terrestrial communities included old field, open and vegetated sand dune and northern forest complexes

(Photos 119-120, 123). The island also supports several rare and sensitive floral and faunal species including a very large population of Pitcher’s thistle.

Hog Island

Located 5.5 miles north east of Beaver Island, Hog Island is the fourth largest in the archipelago consisting of 2,075 acres of land (Map 29). The uninhabited island is owned and managed by the MDNR. Areas surveyed in 2015 consisted primarily of coastline along the northern half of the island with emphasis placed on the western shore (Photo 148-150). Coastal habitat consisted of emergent marsh, open and vegetated sand dunes, and old field. Interior upland habitat was partially composed of mixed coniferous and deciduous forests with a primarily dense understory including portions of dense Canada yew. The majority of the island’s upland communities contained of numerous fallen trees and windfall, making transects difficult to conduct in many locations

Methods

Herpetofaunal Surveys

Transect surveys were conducted using visual as well as aural detection during seasonally appropriate weather conditions in July of 2013 and 2014 and August of 2015. In 2013 and 2014, survey crews included staff from both HRM and CRA, while 2015 included only HRM. During these surveys staff trained in the identification of amphibians and reptiles performed meandering transects through the properties, surveying in both aquatic and terrestrial habitats. Areas were searched for all life stages of amphibians and reptiles and evaluated as potential habitat. Various techniques were employed by the surveyors due to the diverse habitats used by herpetofauna. These techniques included direct detection of target taxa, turning over of fallen material on the ground which may be used as cover by many species, visual identification of possible nesting and basking sites, dip netting, aural identification of calling species, and use of binoculars. During the course of the surveys no vouchers were taken; however, photographs were taken when possible to document

site conditions and species observed. All survey activities were in accordance with HRM’s Scientific

Collector’s and Threatened and Endangered Species permits issued by the State of Michigan.

Data Collection

Each positively identified amphibian and reptile was recorded in the database. The following data were collected for each record: (1) species, (2) gender of each individual (when possible), (3) behavior of each individual, and (4) reproductive condition of each individual (if it could be determined). Observation locations were recorded using Tier II spatial accuracy standards.

Trimble Juno SB GPS units were used during HRM’s surveys and observations were mapped using

ArcMap®.

Results

In total, twenty species of herpetofauna were observed between 2013 and 2015 including ten amphibian and ten reptile species. Results are described in detail below by year and site.

Seventeen species of herpetofauna (eight species of reptiles and nine species of amphibians) were observed in the Beaver Island Archipelago in 2013. Amphibians observed were the Blue- spotted Salamander (Ambystoma laterale), Eastern Newt (Notophthalmus viridescens), Red-backed

Salamander (Plethodon cinereus), Eastern American Toad (Bufo americanus americanus) [Anaxyrus a. americanus], Gray Treefrog (Hyla chrysoscelis/versicolor), Green Frog (Rana clamitans melanota) [Lithobates clamitans melanota], Northern Leopard Frog (Rana pipiens)[Lithobates pipiens], Northern Spring Peeper

(Pseudacris crucifer crucifer), and Wood Frog (Rana sylvatica) [Lithobates sylvatica]. Documented reptiles included Eastern Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis), Eastern Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum triangulum), Northern Red-bellied Snake (Storeria occipitomaculata occipitomaculata), Northern Ring- necked Snake (Diadophis punctatus edwardsii), Northern Water Snake (Nerodia sipedon sipedon), Smooth

Green Snake (Opheodrys vernalis), Eastern Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina serpentina), and Midland

Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta marginata). For the purposes of this report, Hyla chrysocelis and H. versicolor were combined and listed as Gray Treefrog. Painted Turtles are listed as Midland Painted

Turtle, but many if not most found on the islands are intergrades showing influence of hybridization with the Western subspecies (C. picta bellii), found in the Upper Peninsula. Eastern Newts observed were most likely the subspecies Central Newt (Notophtalmus viridescens louisianensis) though some level of integration does occur with this species and ranges do overlap in Michigan.

In 2014, a total of nineteen species were recorded which included those observed in 2013 in addition to one new species of amphibian and one new reptile species. Species recorded for the first time in 2014 included Spotted Salamander (Ambystoma maculatum) and Northern Ribbon Snake

(Thamnophis sauritus septentrionalis).

During the course of surveys conducted in 2015 a total of sixteen species (8 species of reptile and 7 species of amphibian) were recorded and consisted of fifteen species documented in previous years. Northern Brown Snake (Storeria dekayi dekayi ) was documented for the first time during the course of these surveys.

Beaver Island (2013-2015)

Barney’s Lake Nature Preserve (2013)

During 2013, thirteen species of herpetofauna were observed at Barney’s Lake Nature preserve including six species of amphibians and seven species of reptiles (Table 2, Map 3). The observed species were Eastern Newt, Red-backed Salamander, Eastern American Toad, Green Frog

(Photo 3), Northern Leopard Frog, Northern Spring Peeper, Eastern Garter Snake, Eastern Milk

Snake (Photo 2), Northern Red-bellied Snake, Northern Ring-necked Snake, Northern Water Snake

(Photo 3), Smooth Green Snake, and Eastern Snapping Turtle. Invasive vegetation present at the time of surveys included spotted knapweed (Centaurea maculosa), multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora), reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea), and common reed (Phragmites australis ssp. australis), however none of these species were abundant at the site. Based on the quality of habitat present, an additional seven species of herpetofauna may occur within Barney’s Lake Nature Preserve. Although not observed in this survey, Blue-spotted Salamander, Spotted Salamander, Bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana),

Gray Treefrog, Wood Frog, Northern Ribbon Snake, and Midland Painted Turtle may be present.

The Eastern Newts observed were found in the terrestrial eft stage signifying high quality habitat and successful recruitment of this species.

Petritz Nature Preserve (2013)

One species of herpetofauna, the Red-backed Salamander (Photo 10) was observed at Petritz

Nature Preserve (Table 2, Map 4). Although this was the only species found within the site, a high density of individuals was observed which is indicative of high quality habitat (Harding 1997).

Invasive species present included spotted knapweed and sweet clover (Melilotus officinalis), which were both found along the coastal boundary of the parcel. Based on the quality of available habitat, eight additional species of amphibians and reptiles may occur within Petritz Nature Preserve. The forested portions of the preserve including transitional edge habitat may support Eastern American

Toads, Eastern Garter Snakes, Northern Red-bellied Snakes, Northern Ring-necked Snakes, and

Smooth Green Snakes. Eastern Newts, Northern Leopard Frogs, Eastern Garter Snakes, Red- bellied Snakes, and Eastern Snapping Turtles may likely occur in the coastal marsh.

Gull Harbor Nature Preserve (2013)

During 2013 sampling efforts, five species of herpetofauna were observed at Gull Harbor

Nature Preserve, including three reptiles and two amphibians (Table 2, Map 4). The species observed included Eastern American Toad, Green Frog, Eastern Garter Snake, Northern Ring- necked Snake (Photo 14), and Northern Water Snake. Invasive species observed at this site included sweet clover, reed canary grass, spotted knapweed, and zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha). This site has the potential to support an additional eight species of herpetofauna including Blue-spotted

Salamander, Eastern Newt, Mudpuppy (Necturus maculosus maculosus), Gray Treefrog, Northern

Leopard Frog, Northern Spring Peeper, Wood Frog, Midland Painted Turtle and Eastern Snapping

Turtle. While most species could occur in the coastal marsh and associated field habitat, Mudpuppy would be most likely found just offshore using sections of flat limestone in the water.

Egg Lake (2013)

At Egg Lake four species of herpetofauna were observed including one amphibian and three reptiles (Table 2, Map 5). These species included Green Frog, Eastern Garter Snake, Northern

Ring-necked snake, and Northern Water Snake. Invasive species observed included spotted knapweed, reed canary grass, sweet clover, and various agronomic weeds. Based on the quality and variety of habitat types there are an additional eleven species of herpetofauna that may occur at this site including Eastern Newt, Red-backed Salamander, Eastern American Toad, Gray Treefrog,

Northern Leopard Frog, Northern Spring Peeper, Wood Frog, Eastern Milk Snake, Northern Red- bellied Snake, Northern Ribbon Snake, and Smooth Green Snake. Due to the presence of high quality wetlands that may support populations of breeding amphibians, it is likely that additional species would be observed during a spring survey of this site.

Johnny Martin’s Trail (2013)

Twelve species of herpetofauna were observed at Johnny Martin’s Trail in 2013 including eight species of amphibians and four species of reptiles (Table 2, Map 6). The species observed were Blue-spotted Salamander, Eastern Newt (Photo 23), Red-backed Salamander, Eastern

American Toad (Photo 18), Gray Treefrog, Green Frog, Northern Spring Peeper, Wood Frog,

Eastern Garter Snake, Northern Red-bellied Snake (Photo 22), Eastern Snapping Turtle and

Midland Painted Turtle. Invasive species included spotted knapweed and reed canary grass. Based on the available habitat, an additional seven species of herpetofauna may use Johnny Martin’s Trail including Spotted Salamander, Northern Leopard Frog, Eastern Milk Snake, Northern Ribbon

Snake, Northern Ring-necked Snake, Northern Water Snake, and Smooth Green Snake. The inundated ridge-swales as well as the areas of standing water in the gravel pit were biologically significant breeding grounds for multiple species of amphibians and also acted as nurseries for juvenile turtles.

Lake Geneserath (2013)

In 2013, seven species of herpetofauna were observed at Lake Geneserath including five species of amphibians and two species of reptiles (Table 2, Map 7). These species included Eastern

Newt, Red-backed Salamander, Eastern American Toad, Green Frog, Northern Spring Peeper,

Eastern Garter Snake (Photo 25), and Northern Water Snake. Based on available habitat the following ten species of herpetofauna may also occur at Lake Geneserath: Blue-spotted Salamander,

Spotted Salamander, Bullfrog, Gray Treefrog, Wood Frog, Northern Red-bellied Snake, Northern

Ribbon Snake, Northern Ring-necked Snake, Eastern Snapping Turtle, and Midland Painted Turtle.

A juvenile Eastern Newt was recorded in the terrestrial eft stage signifying high quality woods.

Little Sand Bay Nature Preserve (2013)

Ten species of reptiles and amphibians were observed at Little Sand Bay Nature Preserve in

2013 including five species of amphibians and five species of reptiles (Table 2, Map 8). These species were Eastern Newt, Red-backed Salamander, Eastern American Toad, Green Frog,

Northern Leopard Frog, Eastern Garter Snake, Northern Water Snake, Smooth Green Snake

(Photo 29), Midland Painted Turtle, and Eastern Snapping Turtle. Invasive species at this site included spotted knapweed, common reed, bull thistle, Canada thistle, and reed canary grass.

Several federally protected species of plants were observed as well including Lake Huron tansy and

Michigan monkey-flower (Mimulus michiganensis). Based on available habitat there are an additional nine species of herpetofauna that may occur at Little Sand Bay Nature Preserve including Blue- spotted Salamander, Bullfrog, Northern Spring Peeper, Wood Frog, Eastern Milk Snake, Northern

Red-bellied Snake, Northern Ribbon Snake, and Northern Ring-necked Snake.

Font Lake North Hidden Valley Nature Trail (2014)

Seven species of herpetofauna were observed at Font Lake in 2014 (Table 3, Map 9). Of these seven species, five were amphibian species and two were reptiles. The species observed were Red- backed Salamander (Photo 40), Eastern American Toad, Green Frog, Northern Spring Peeper,

Wood Frog, Eastern Garter Snake, and Midland Painted Turtle. Invasive floral species for this site included reed canary grass, which is present along the lake shore and in adjacent marshes. Based on the overall habitat assessment of the site, an additional thirteen species could likely occur including

Blue-spotted Salamander, Eastern Newt, Bullfrog, Gray Treefrog, Northern Red-bellied Snake,

Northern Ribbon Snake, Northern Ring-necked Snake, Northern Water Snake, and Eastern

Snapping Turtle.

Lucas Property and Conn’s Cove (2014)

These adjacent sites which contain very similar habitat were surveyed consecutively on the same day.

During the 2014 survey, seven species of herpetofauna were observed, including five amphibian species and two reptile species (Table 3, Map 10). HRM recorded the presence of Eastern Newt,

Red-backed Salamander, Eastern American Toad, Green Frog, Northern Leopard Frog (Photo 44),

Eastern Garter Snake (Photo 46), and Northern Water Snake. A large number of Eastern Garter

Snakes were observed within the walls of the big barn present on the Lucas property. This structure likely serves as an important basking location as well as critical overwintering habitat. Invasive species were observed at both sites including European swamp thistle, reed canary grass, and spotted knapweed. Based on the habitat conditions at the time of surveys, it is estimated that these sites could support seven additional species of herpetofauna including Northern Spring Peeper,

Wood Frog, Eastern Milk Snake, Northern Ring-necked Snake, Northern Brown Snake, Northern

Red-bellied Snake, and Smooth Green Snake.

Luney’s Pointe (2014)

Nine species of herpetofauna were observed during the survey of Luney’s Pointe; six amphibian and three reptile species (Table 3, Map 11). These species included Blue-spotted Salamander (Photo 52),

Red-backed Salamander, Eastern American Toad, Green Frog (Photo 54), Northern Leopard Frog,

Northern Spring Peeper, Eastern Garter Snake, Northern Water Snake, and Painted Turtle (Photo

53). Several Painted Turtles were caught in hand and were clearly intergrades between the Western

(C. picta belli) and Midland (C. picta marginata) subspecies. Few invasive species were observed at this site and consisted mostly of dead Phragmites stands which appeared to have been recently treated.

Multiple rare and protected native plants were observed including Pitcher’s thistle and Michigan monkey-flower. Based on the habitat assessment performed during the survey, seven additional

species of herpetofauna could occur in this area including Eastern Newt, Gray Treefrog, Wood

Frog, Northern Brown Snake, Northern Red-bellied Snake, Northern Ring-necked Snake, and

Eastern Snapping Turtle.

Vesty’s Field (2014)

Five species of herpetofauna were observed in Vesty’s Field: three amphibian species and two reptile species (Table 3, Map 12). These species included Red-backed Salamander, Northern Leopard Frog,

Northern Spring Peeper, Eastern Garter Snake, and Northern Red-bellied Snake (Photo 57).

Invasive floral species observed included European swamp thistle, reed canary grass and autumn olive. Based on the observations and assessment of habitat conditions, this site has the potential to support ten additional species of herpetofauna including Blue-spotted Salamander, Eastern Newt,

Eastern American Toad, Gray Treefrog, Green Frog, Wood Frog, Eastern Milk Snake, Northern

Brown Snake, Northern Ribbon Snake, and Smooth Green Snake.

Andy’s Trail (2014)

This survey started at the state-owned gravel pit located in close proximity to the trailhead itself.

Eight species of herpetofauna were observed, including three amphibian species and five reptile species (Table 3, Map 13). These included Red-backed Salamander, Eastern American Toad,

Northern Spring Peeper, Eastern Garter Snake, Northern Red-bellied Snake, Northern Ring-necked

Snake, Northern Water Snake (Photo 66), and Smooth Green Snake (Photo 65). European swamp thistle was the most noted invasive plant species observed during the course of the survey. Based on assessment of habitat conditions, this site has the potential to support eight other species of herpetofauna including Blue-spotted Salamander, Eastern Newt, Gray Treefrog, Northern Leopard

Frog, Wood Frog, Northern Brown Snake, Northern Ribbon Snake and Midland Painted Turtle.

Cranberry Bog (2014)

Six species of herpetofauna were recorded in the Cranberry Bog in 2014 (Table 3, Map 14). Five amphibian species and one reptile species were observed including Red-backed Salamander, Eastern

American Toad, Green Frog (Photo 72), Northern Spring Peeper, Wood Frog (Photo 71), and

Eastern Garter Snake. European swamp thistle was the only notable invasive plant species observed and was mostly located along the walking trail that leads to the bog. Based on assessment of the habitat this site could potentially support twelve additional herpetofaunal species including Blue- spotted Salamander, Eastern Newt, Spotted Salamander, Gray Treefrog, Northern Leopard Frog,

Eastern Milk Snake, Northern Brown Snake, Northern Red-bellied Snake, Northern Ribbon Snake,

Northern Ring-necked Snake, Smooth Green Snake, and Midland Painted Turtle

Iron Ore Bay (2014)

During this survey four herpetofaunal species were observed: two species of amphibians and two species of reptiles (Table 3, Map 15). These species included Eastern American Toad, Gray

Treefrog (Photo 75), Eastern Garter Snake, and Northern Water Snake. The lack of observed species may have been due to unfavorable weather conditions. No notable populations of invasive plants species were observed for this site. Based on assessment of habitat conditions, this site has the potential to support six additional herpetofaunal species including Eastern Newt, Northern

Leopard Frog, Northern Brown Snake, Northern Red-bellied Snake, Northern Ring-necked Snake, and Midland Painted Turtle.

Martin’s Bluff (2014)

Six species were recorded at Martin’s Bluff including five amphibian species and one reptile species

(Table 3, Map 16). Cool and windy weather conditions may have caused a lower detection rate.

Herpetofauna observed included Red-backed Salamander, Eastern American Toad, Green Frog,

Northern Spring Peeper (Photo 78), Wood Frog, and Northern Water Snake (Photo 82). The only notable invasive plant observed during this survey was European swamp thistle which was dispersed intermittently along the shoreline. Based on assessment of habitat conditions, ten additional species potentially occur at the site including Blue-spotted Salamander, Eastern Newt, Gray Treefrog,

Northern Leopard Frog, Eastern Garter Snake, Northern Brown Snake, Northern Red-bellied

Snake, Northern Ribbon Snake, Midland Painted Turtle and Eastern Snapping Turtle.

Tara’s Meadow (2014)

Four species of herpetofauna were recorded at Tara’s Meadow: one amphibian species and three reptile species, which included Eastern American Toad, Eastern Garter Snake (Photo 85), Northern

Red-bellied Snake (Photo 86), and Smooth Green Snake (Table 3, Map 17). Several invasive plant species were observed including spotted knapweed, common St. John’s-wort (Hypericum perforatum), as well several species of agronomic weeds. Based on an overall habitat assessment, this site could support an additional three species including Eastern Milk Snake, Northern Brown Snake, and

Northern Ring-necked Snake.

Big Field (2014)

Six species of herpetofauna were recorded at Big Field including one amphibian species and five reptile species (Table 3, Map 18). These species were Eastern American Toad, Northern Ring- necked Snake, Eastern Garter Snake, Northern Red-bellied Snake, Northern Ribbon Snake, and

Smooth Green Snake. All but one of the snake species known to occur on Beaver Island were observed during the survey of this site, and a large number of snake eggs were observed under cover objects placed by Central Michigan University for an ecological study. The majority of this site was

dominated by bracken fern but several areas of invasive spotted knapweed were noted along the mowed hiking paths. Assessment of habitat conditions indicated that this site has the potential to support five additional herpetofaunal species including Gray Treefrog, Northern Leopard Frog,

Northern Spring Peeper, Eastern Milk Snake and Northern Brown Snake.

Black Hills Clearing (2014)

During this survey only open field portions of the site were assessed although the property also contains a forested area. Within these portions of the site, five herpetofaunal species were observed including one species of amphibian and four species of reptile (Table 3, Map 19). These species were Red-backed Salamander, Eastern Garter Snake (Photo 94), Northern Red-bellied Snake,

Northern Ring-necked Snake, and Smooth Green Snake (Photo 93). Spotted knapweed was the only notable invasive plant observed. Habitat assessment for the site indicated the potential to support three additional herpetofaunal species including Eastern American Toad, Eastern Milk

Snake, and Northern Brown Snake.

Karl J. Erber Nature Preserve (2015)

Six species of herpetofauna were observed in Karl J. Erber Nature Preserve in 2015 including four species of amphibians and two species of reptiles (Table 4, Map 20). Species observed include

Eastern American Toad, Green Frog, Red-backed Salamander, Eastern Newt (Photo 99), Eastern

Garter Snake and Northern Red-bellied Snake. Overall this site contained high quality habitat and has the potential to contain at least thirteen additional species of herpetofauna including Gray

Treefrog, Northern Leopard Frog, Northern Spring Peeper, Wood Frog, Mudpuppy, Eastern

Snapping Turtle, Midland Turtle, Northern Water Snake, Northern Ribbon Snake, Northern Ring-

necked Snake, Eastern Smooth Green Snake, Northern Brown Snake and Eastern Milk Snake.

Notable invasives included Reed Canary Grass, Spotted Knapweed, and European Swamp Thistle.

McCauley’s Point (2015)

Five species of herpetofauna were observed at McCauley’s point including four species of amphibians and one species of reptile (Table 4, Map 21). These species included Eastern American

Toad, Northern Leopard Frog, Northern Spring Peeper, Red-backed Salamander, and Eastern

Garter Snake (Photo 100). Potential species for McCauley’s Point include Eastern Newt, Green

Frog, Gray Tree Frog, Mudpuppy, Norther Water Snake, Eastern Smooth Green Snake, Northern

Red-bellied Snake, Northern Ring-necked Snake, Eastern Milk Snake, Northern Brown Snake,

Northern Ribbon Snake, Eastern Snapping Turtle and Midland Painted Turtle. Invasive species observed include Spotted Knapweed and Sedum spp.

Orange Trail (2015)

Five species of amphibians were observed during the Orange Trail Survey including Eastern

American Toad, Northern Spring Peeper, Green Frog, Eastern Newt (Photo 106), and Red-backed

Salamander (Table 4, Map 22). Potential species for this parcel include five additional species of amphibians including Gray Tree Frog, Northern Leopard Frog, Wood Frog, Blue-spotted

Salamander, and Spotted Salamander. Ten species of reptile that have potential to occur as well include the Eastern Garter Snake, Northern Water Snake, Northern Red-bellied Snake, Northern

Brown Snake, Northern Ribbon Snake, Eastern Milk Snake, Northern Ring-necked Snake, Eastern

Smooth Green Snake, Eastern Snapping Turtle, and Midland Painted Turtle. Spotted Knapweed and

Reed Canary Grass were both observed along this Trail

Bonner’s Landing (2015)

Eight species of herpetofauna were observed at Bonner’s Landing including five species of amphibians and three species of reptiles (Table 4, Map 23). These species included Eastern

American Toad (Photo 108), Green Frog, Northern Leopard Frog, Red-backed Salamander, Eastern

Newt, Northern Water Snake, Northern Ring-necked Snake, and Eastern Garter Snake (Photo 109).

Potential species for this site include Northern Spring Peeper, Gray Treefrog, Wood Frog,

Mudpuppy, Eastern Smooth Green Snake, Northern Red-bellied Snake, Eastern Milk Snake,

Northern Brown Snake, Northern Ribbon Snake, Eastern Snapping Turtle, and Midland Painted

Turtle. Invasive Sedum spp. were observed along the shoreline as well as the federally protected

Pitchers Thistle.

Sweeney’s Swamp (2015)

After conducting a rapid and limited assessment of the site, six species of herpetofauna were identified (Table 4, Map 24). These included two species of amphibians, Northern Leopard Frog, and Red-backed Salamander, and four species of reptile including Northern Water snake, Eastern

Garter Snake, Midland Painted Turtle, and Eastern Snapping Turtle. Potential species for this site include Eastern American Toad, Green Frog, Northern Spring Peeper, Gray Tree Frog, Wood Frog,

Eastern Newt, Blue-spotted Salamander, Spotted Salamander, Northern Ribbon Snake, Eastern

Smooth Green Snake, Northern Ring-necked Snake, Northern Brown Snake, and Eastern Milk

Snake

Garden Island (2013-2014)

Eight species of herpetofauna were observed on Garden Island in 2013 (Table 2, Map 25).

Of these eight species three were amphibians and five were reptiles. The species observed were

Red-backed Salamander (Photo 98), Eastern American Toad, Green Frog, Eastern Garter Snake,

Northern Ring-necked Snake, Northern Red-bellied Snake, Northern Water Snake (Photo 99), and

Midland Painted Turtle (Photo 96). Though limited and localized, reed canary grass and spotted knapweed are both present on surveyed portions of the island.

Twelve species of herpetofauna were observed on Garden Island during 2014 surveys: five species of amphibians and seven species of reptile (Table 3, Map 25). These species included

Eastern Newt (Photo 106), Red-backed Salamander, Eastern American Toad, Green Frog (Photo

103), Northern Spring Peeper, Eastern Garter Snake, Eastern Milk Snake, Northern Red-bellied

Snake, Northern Ring-necked Snake, Northern Water Snake, Midland Painted Turtle, and Eastern

Snapping Turtle (Photo 105). Invasive plant species observed during the survey include pockets of

European swamp thistle, Canada thistle and reed canary grass. Based on the habitat observed in

2013 and 2014, this site has the potential to support nine additional herpetofaunal species not observed by HRM. These species include Blue-spotted Salamander, Spotted Salamander, Bullfrog,

Gray Treefrog, Northern Leopard Frog, Wood Frog, Northern Brown Snake, Northern Ribbon

Snake, and Smooth Green Snake.

Trout Island (2014)

Two species of reptiles were observed on Trout Island in 2014 (Table 3, Map 26) which included Eastern Garter Snake (Photos 111-112) and Northern Water Snake. Terrestrial invasive plant species are abundant, including wild parsnip and hound’s-tongue (Cynoglossum officinale). Based on the condition of available habitat there are an additional eight species of herpetofauna that could likely occur on Trout Island including Eastern Newt, Eastern American Toad, Gray Treefrog,

Northern Leopard Frog, and Eastern Milk Snake, Northern Brown Snake, Northern Red-bellied

Snake, and Smooth Green Snake. Although several snakes may find suitable habitat in the grassy

mowed airstrip, those species would have colonized the island recently as this habitat would not have been available historically.

Whiskey Island (2014)

Four species of herpetofauna were observed on Whiskey Island in 2014 (Table 3, Map 27) including two amphibians and two reptiles. The species observed were Eastern American Toad

(Photo 118), Northern Leopard Frog, Eastern Garter Snake, and Northern Water Snake (Photo

116). Invasive species were relatively abundant along the shoreline during the time of surveys, particularly wild parsnip (Pastinaca sativa) and mossy stonecrop (Sedum acre). Additionally one significant cluster of non-native Phragmites was observed. Based on the available habitat and its quality there are an additional two species of herpetofauna that could likely occur on Whiskey Island:

Eastern Newt and Northern Brown Snake.

High Island (2014)

In the two days spent surveying High Island, the team covered roughly the northernmost fourth of the island and portions of the eastern coast. Ten species of herpetofauna were observed during HRM surveys: six species of amphibians and four species of reptiles (Table 3, Map 28). These species included Blue-spotted Salamander, Eastern Newt (Photo 122), Spotted Salamander (Photo

124), Eastern American Toad, Green Frog, Northern Spring Peeper, Eastern Garter Snake (Photo

125), Northern Water Snake (Photo 126), Midland Painted Turtle, and Eastern Snapping Turtle

(Photo 121). Several species of invasive flora were observed during the surveys including European swamp thistle, reed canary grass, mossy stonecrop, and a relatively small stand of non-native

Phragmites. Several rare native species observed as well including Pitcher’s thistle and Lake Huron tansy as well as Piping Plover and Bald Eagle. Based on assessment of available habitat, it is estimated that surveyed portions of High Island could support eleven additional species of

herpetofauna including Red-backed Salamander, Bullfrog, Northern Leopard Frog, Gray Treefrog,

Wood Frog, Eastern Milk Snake, Northern Brown Snake, Northern Red-bellied Snake, Northern

Ribbon Snake, Northern Ring-necked Snake, and Smooth Green Snake.

Hog Island (2015)

Ten species of herpetofauna were observed on Hog Island including five species of amphibians and five species of reptiles (Table 4, Map 29). These included Eastern American Toad

(Photo 151), Green Frog (Photo 152), Northern Leopard Frog, Northern Spring Peeper, Red- backed Salamander (Photo 153), Eastern Garter Snake, Eastern Milk Snake (Photo 154), Northern

Brown Snake (Photo 155), Northern Water Snake, Eastern Snapping Turtle (Photo 156). Based on the available habitat seen during the course of surveys there are an additional ten species that may occur on Hog Island including Gray Treefrog, Wood Frog, Mudpuppy, Eastern Newt, Blue-spotted

Salamander, Northern Red-bellied Snake, Northern Ring-necked Snake, Northern Ribbon Snake,

Eastern Garter Snake and Midland Painted Turtle. Invasive plant species were present including

Phragmites and spotted knapweed; however, they are currently in manageable densities.

Discussion

The work performed by the HRM team with assistance from island residents is the most extensive and comprehensive herpetofaunal survey conducted on the Archipelago to date based on area of the assessment. Results of these assessments give an unprecedented look into the herpetofauna populations located on Beaver Island and other islands within the Archipelago. The

Beaver Island Archipelago was historically known to have supported twenty different species of herpetofauna including eleven amphibians and nine reptiles (Table 5, Map 2). During the course of the monitoring conducted through 2015, the total number of species observed by HRM in the

Beaver Island Archipelago was twenty including ten amphibians and ten reptiles. This total included one species not historically known to occur on the archipelago (Northern Brown Snake).

Importantly, this monitoring has led to the documentation of multiple new species on the outer islands, with three new species recorded on High Island, one species on Trout Island and eight species on Hog Island. Photo vouchers were collected on High Island to confirm the presence of

Northern Spring Peeper, Spotted Salamander, and Eastern Snapping Turtle. On Trout Island, a

Northern Water Snake was observed; however, a voucher was not obtained. On Hog Island, observations of several individuals of previously unknown species were recorded (with voucher photos) for Green Frog, Northern Leopard Frog, Northern Spring Peeper, Red-backed Salamander,

Eastern Garter Snake, Northern Brown Snake, Eastern Milk Snake, and Eastern Snapping Turtle. As of 2004, none of these species were previously documented on the corresponding islands where

HRM recorded their presence (Bowen and Gillingham 2004). One species historically known from

Beaver Island, Bullfrog, was not observed by HRM during our surveys.

Many of the herpetofauna species encountered throughout the sample areas were observed at various life stages indicating that numerous sites support critical habitat able to sustain reproductively viable populations. Many female snakes were found to be gravid during all three years, several groups of eggs believed to be Northern Ring-necked Snake were observed in 2014, and multiple neonate snakes were observed in 2015. A high number of juvenile and hatchling

Midland Painted Turtles and Eastern Snapping Turtles were observed in 2013. Additionally multiple age classes of species were observed on several of the outer islands suggesting recruitment is occurring. Given that nest predation is a major threat to turtle populations throughout the state and is known to be high in many parts of Beaver Island, this evidence of turtle recruitment is encouraging. Throughout 2013 and 2014 surveys, frog and toad metamorphs were found in great numbers among the various sites. In 2015, surveys were conducted later in the year and as a result,

larger age classes were observed compared to the metamorphs from previous surveys. Frogs and toads typically produce great numbers of eggs, a strategy which acts to counteract the high losses of individuals to predation (Harding 1997). Eastern Newts were found in three life stages on Beaver

Island including larvae, efts, and adults and female Red-backed salamanders were observed protecting their eggs in woody debris on both Garden and Beaver Island. These results indicate that breeding populations of herpetofauna are located throughout the archipelago.

Several of the amphibians and reptiles observed on the archipelago displayed physical characteristics and high morphological variability not typically seen in populations on the mainland.

Notably, Eastern Garter Snakes were found with colors ranging from bright orange, to bright yellow and pale turquoise. Herpetofauna documented at unusually large sizes included several Eastern

American Toads that had grown larger than the average human fist on multiple islands, and Eastern

Garter Snakes ranging from two and a half to three feet long on Beaver Island. Eastern Garter

Snakes and Eastern American Toads of this size are typically older individuals and are increasingly rare in Michigan. Additionally, Red-backed Salamanders which can appear in two different color morphs were seen solely in their “red phase” on most of our surveys with “lead phase” individuals only observed on Hog Island.

Several of the sites assessed for this study are of importance due to the rich assemblage of herpetofauna present, despite high levels of human disturbance. Gull Harbor Nature Preserve includes a historical gravel pit. Johnny Martin’s Trail and a portion of Andy’s Trail are actively used for gravel extraction. These current and historic construction activities have created otherwise limited habitat for select species, and a high number of amphibians and reptiles were observed utilizing them, making these areas biologically significant despite the presumption that their disturbed condition reduces function and habitat viability. Ponds that were created in the gravel pits

were not only used by many different species of herpetofauna but high densities of several species were also noted. Even the smallest of ponds at the gravel pit off of Johnny Martin’s Trail, some of which were less than four inches deep, provided habitat for juvenile Eastern Snapping and Midland

Painted Turtles, Eastern Newt larvae and adults, and frog metamorphs. These sites can serve as a reference for how similar disturbed areas, such as gravel pits, may dually function as critical refugia for herpetofauna where natural habitat is limited. Care should be taken at these sites, particularly those that are actively used to ensure that they are properly managed in order to continue providing critical habitat.

Similar to sites that have been altered by human activities, parcels containing man-made structures such as barns or large debris were also observed to support high densities amphibians and reptiles. These structures are attractive to herpetofauna, particularly reptiles because they provide ideal locations for thermoregulation when heated by the sun and serve as a source of protection from predators and harsh weather conditions. Although these areas may appear to degrade the landscape and create waste, in reality many structures and various debris (e.g. metal roofing, ply- wood, rubber sheeting) can provide habitat for amphibians and reptiles in locations where it is otherwise lacking.

HRM documented the presence of all species historically known to occur on Beaver Island with the exception of Bullfrog. Correspondence with island residents indicates that this species has not been seen on the archipelago for many years. Due to a lack of recent records it is likely that

Bullfrogs have been extirpated from Beaver Island and effort should be placed on assessing possible causes for its disappearance. Suitable habitat was detected for Bullfrog during assessment of natural conditions on the archipelago and therefore there is potential for these areas to support reintroduced populations. The Beaver Island archipelago lies within the range of several Michigan

herpetofauna species that are not known to occur on the islands including Eastern Tiger Salamander and Blanding’s Turtle. Northern Brown Snake is only recently reported, and was observed on Hog

Island previously unconfirmed but was identified during the course of 2015 surveys of the island.

Additional survey efforts targeting these species are justified to better determine the true species richness of the archipelago.

In recent years, populations of herpetofauna have declined in Michigan and throughout the world (Harding 1997; Holman 2012; Graeter, Buhlmann et al. 2013). There are many factors implicated in population declines including habitat loss, climate change, disease, altered hydrologic regimes, illegal collection, and road mortality. Habitat loss is likely the most significant driver of amphibian and reptile population declines in Michigan. Because the islands are secluded they represent a significant biological refuge for the species found on them, demonstrating Michigan’s recent historical biological diversity, density, and richness. Protecting and managing the sensitive and ecologically unique natural communities found on the Archipelago will allow herpetofauna on the islands to continue to thrive, while improper management can result in population declines, especially those of sensitive species (Mifsud 2014). Invasive species should be continually monitored to ensure that they do not take over habitats that serve as refugia for herpetofauna species.

Portions of the archipelago are more difficult to survey comprehensively due to several logistical issues, including inclement weather, limited accessibility, and lack of infrastructure. In

2013, weather conditions made travel to outer islands difficult and efforts were limited to one day on

Garden Island. Weather was more favorable in 2014 and crews were able to reach three new islands.

Additional surveys on Garden Island would likely gain more comprehensive data with overnight stays. The conditions of several trails on both High and Garden Island were significantly degraded

with overgrown vegetation and fallen trees blocking the way. Flagging which was recently placed along a trail on High Island by the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians was of great assistance while performing surveys. 2015 provided the opportunity to reach Hog Island although weather only permitted one day of surveying.

Due to the density of vegetation and windfall in many parts of Hog Island, transecting was difficult and largely limited to coastal areas though some portions of interior deciduous hardwood forest was assessed. Considering the numerous challenges that may arise during work on remote outer islands, careful and efficient planning is important to ensure that optimal results are achieved during surveys.

Recommendations

Overall recommendations, as well as specifics for each area surveyed, are provided below.

Recommendations for individual sites can also be used as a reference when considering restoration measures for other parcels not assessed by HRM. For more detailed descriptions on how to protect and conserve herpetofauna through proper management techniques, please refer to Michigan

Amphibian and Reptile Best Management Practices (Mifsud 2014).

The Archipelago  Invasive Species Control. Invasive plant species in the archipelago should be continually

monitored and managed. These species threaten rare and sensitive native plant communities

as well as herpetofauna and other wildlife populations that rely on them and naturally

balanced ecosystems. Timing and techniques used to conduct invasive control can be

adapted to reduce potential impacts to herpetofauna. Care should be taken to conduct

management activities in a manner and at times that are sensitive to the habitat requirements

and life cycles of on-site herpetofauna species.

 Subsidized Predators. During HRM’s surveys, several predated turtle nests were observed.

Raccoons are notorious turtle nest predators and can severely impact the number of

successful nests destroying upwards of 100% of nests annually (Harding 1997;

Herpetological Resource and Management 2012). This species not only affects herpetofauna

but also actively predates several groups of birds including ground nesting shorebirds. Given

that raccoons were absent from the archipelago until introduced by man, monitoring of the

population density is encouraged, and a management plan to control or eradicate them from

the islands may be warranted.

 Bullfrog Population Assessment. Bullfrogs were not observed during HRM’s surveys and have

been reported by others as being absent for many years at previously known locations. A

targeted assessment focused on determining the status of this species on the island and

potential cause of its decline is warranted. If extirpated, this species would likely serve as a

good candidate for reintroduction.

 Outreach and Training. It has been anecdotally documented on multiple occasions that snakes

are persecuted by some residents on the island. Educating the public about the role and

importance of amphibians and reptiles on the landscape is an important component in

restoring and preserving healthy ecosystems. In addition to demonstrating the value these

species have, citizens can also help in monitoring species and collecting critical data through

contributions to projects like the Michigan Herp Atlas. Conducting training workshops

focused amphibians and reptiles will not only aid in the understanding of these taxa but also

engage likely volunteers in contributing observations.

Beaver Island

Barney’s Lake Nature Preserve

 Basking Structures. Basking opportunities are a limiting factor controlling the presence and

density of some herpetofauna. These structures also provide important cover for fish

species and macroinvertebrates. Barney’s lake was lacking in sufficient basking structures

during 2013 surveys. Placing additional woody debris sporadically along the shore will

increase habitat use by turtle and snake species and improve overall habitat restoration.

 Woody Debris. In the grassland field across from the lake, placement of additional woody

debris to provide cover for herpetofauna species is encouraged. Woody debris provides

critical microhabitat and microclimate zones that are necessary for nesting, foraging, shelter,

and shedding.

 Road Crossing. This parcel includes a road which divides the property. Roads are known

wildlife sinks and can fragment landscapes. Incorporating wildlife crossing signs to reduce

potential road related mortality of amphibians and reptiles is suggested. These signs can also

educate the public about wildlife in the area.

Petritz Nature Preserve

 Woody Debris. Adding woody debris along the coastal marsh and beach area of Petritz

Nature Preserve would provide important cover for various species of herpetofauna that use

this area. It will also provide critical nesting sites for various species that nest in logs.

Gull Harbor Nature Preserve

 Road Crossing. Due to the road that bisects this parcel, a wildlife crossing sign is advised to

reduce road related fatalities of the amphibians and reptiles which seasonally or temporally

utilize both sides of the road.

 Woody Debris. The addition of woody debris in this area would provide additional cover to

herpetofauna species such as snakes.

Egg Lake

 Native Community Restoration. The establishment of native shrubs and herbaceous vegetation

to the recently created old field community at Egg Lake, along with invasive plant control,

would allow this site to provide a more diverse habitat and likely support a richer assemblage

of wildlife including amphibians and reptiles.

 Public Walk. With the presence of sensitive ecosystems, limiting public access or providing a

boardwalk with rails would help to protect not only the herpetofauna species that use the

bog but would also protect many of the sensitive plants as well.

 Hibernacula. Available overwintering sites were lacking at this location. Creating such

structures allows for greater use of this area by herpetofauna. There is sufficient onsite

debris and rock left over from the old homestead that could be utilized in creating

structures. An old well present on site could serve as a likely start point for a simple

hibernaculum for resident herpetofauna.

 Forest Stand Improvement Cut. Selectively removing unwanted trees to create a more open

canopy may improve site conditions for target habitat communities and can be beneficial for

various wildlife species. Felled trees can remain on the forest floor to act as cover for

species of salamanders as well as being placed in the old field to provide cover for additional

species.

Johnny Martin’s Trail

 Trash Removal. Large amounts of trash and debris are commonly found near and around the

gravel pit located off of the trail. Removal of this trash would create more natural overall

habitat and potentially reduce the risk of harm to the herpetofauna species present. An

overall cleanup of the site would also discourage future dumping at this location.

 Creation of Additional Ponds. Manmade water holes at this site supported a significant number

of herpetofauna species and the construction of additional pools would likely provide

increased critical breeding and nursery habitat.

 Re-contouring of Slopes. Slopes of the manmade ponds in the gravel pit are generally too steep

for herpetofaunal use in many areas. Re-contouring these slopes to a grade that would allow

easier access to and from the pools would greatly benefit herpetofaunal species which may

use the ponds.

 Basking Structures. The addition of basking logs to the existing ponds and to any future

created ponds would further encourage the use of the site by herpetofauna species such as

the Midland Painted Turtle. These structures also provide necessary cover for a number of

other species.

 Woody Debris. Adding woody debris and brush piles around the gravel pit would provide

essential cover for snakes and some salamander species. The brush piles, if properly

designed, could also function as hibernacula for the snakes providing additional functional

habitat for them.

Lake Geneserath

 Nesting Beach. Lake Geneserath currently has limited nesting opportunities for turtles. The

addition of nesting areas would likely benefit turtles inhabiting Lake Geneserath. In

conjunction with subsidized predator control, recruitment of young age classes would likely

increase in the area.

 Basking Structures. Basking opportunities are a limiting factor controlling the presence and

density of some herpetofauna. These structures would also likely provide cover for fish and

other aquatic organisms. Lake Geneserath lacks sufficient basking structures and placing

additional woody debris sporadically along the shore will likely increase habitat use by turtle

and snake species as well as improve overall habitat conditions.

Little Sand Bay Nature Preserve

 Woody Debris. The addition of woody debris along the coastal and grassland areas would

provide critical cover for various species of herpetofauna as well as nesting substrate for

some snake species.

 Basking Structures. The pond located at the southeastern portion of Little Sand Bay had

turtles utilizing the habitat; however, the pond is lacking any basking structure. The addition

of basking structures would likely increase use of the pond by turtles and other herpetofauna

species.

Font Lake North Hidden Valley Nature Trail

 Basking Structures. Basking structures are a limiting factor that can control the presence and

density of some herpetofauna. These structures are lacking in Font Lake and placing woody

debris sporadically along the shore will likely increase use of the lake by turtles and other

herpetofauna species.

 Signage. Portions of the trail have experienced damage due off-road vehicle use. Placing

signs along the trail prohibiting the use of motor vehicles will protect the path from damage

and decrease overall habitat disturbance.

Lucas Property

 Proper Timing of Herbicide Application. The field located on this property contains critical

wildlife habitat with many native floral species present. It is recommended to reduce the use

of herbicides and chemicals in this area and timing application for periods when

herpetofauna are less active.

 Seasonal Mowing. Similar to herbicide application, mowing of field habitats can harm

amphibians and reptiles that are present. Mowing of the Lucas Property field in late fall

would reduce the impact of such maintenance activities.

 Woody Debris. The addition of wood piles and cover boards in the open field habitat would

provide areas of refugia and basking opportunities for numerous amphibian and reptile

species.

 Maintain the old barn. The old barn appears to serve as critical refugia for snakes and likely

provides an optimal hibernation location. Efforts should be made to maintain this structure

on the property so that it may continue to provide necessary structure and habitat.

Conn’s Cove

 Restoring forested wetland. Conn’s Cove contained areas of forested wetland that appear to have

been altered with manmade drainage channels. To prevent further disturbance to the

hydrologic regime and restore this area to its natural state, it is recommended that the

channels be filled in.

Luney’s Pointe

 Habitat Monitoring. This site contained high quality coastal marsh habitat and persistent

monitoring of the area to prevent encroachment of invasive species or other forms of

degradation is strongly encouraged.

Vesty’s Field

 Woody Debris. The addition of woody debris or other forms of cover throughout the field

would benefit present herpetofauna populations.

 Hibernacula. The addition of snake hibernacula would create critical habitat refugia for

snakes and other wildlife species during the winter months. Until recently a large rock pile

was present in an optimal location for a hibernaculum. Remaining rocks or woody debris

can be utilized for constructing additional hibernation habitat.

 Seasonal Mowing. Mowing can cause serious or fatal injuries to herpetofauna and it is

recommended to limit these activities to when amphibians and reptiles are not active such as

late October or early November.

Andy’s Trail

 Woody Debris. The maintenance and augmentation of woody debris along the shoreline as

well as within the gravel pit would increase cover and refugia for herpetofauna species in the

area.

 Trail Maintenance. Some parts of the trails are difficult to follow and degraded; flagging or

intermittent clearing would be beneficial for continued use.

Cranberry Bog

 Off-road Vehicles. Restriction or prohibition of off-road vehicles within the site would be

beneficial to the overall community and habitat structure, as well as to the herpetofaunal

species residing within.

 Maintain open areas: Conservation with a local island resident indicated this site was once

traditionally managed with rotated prescribed burning. Restoring this management regime

would likely create more open space and available habitat within the bog.

Iron Ore Bay

 Habitat Monitoring. General monitoring and maintenance of the area in its current state to

prevent encroachment of invasive species and other forms of habitat degradation is

recommended. At the time of survey, Iron Ore Creek was emitting a strong smell of decay.

Monitoring of this location and the water quality would be beneficial for preserving overall

quality of the landscape.

 Maintain Public Recreation Areas. Proper maintenance of heavily used public sites such as this

one is important for preserving the ecological integrity of an area while also providing

recreational opportunities for island residents. At the time of survey, outdoor restroom

facilities located near the shoreline were littered with toilet paper and the area which

included Iron Ore Creek was emitting a strong smell of decay. Monitoring of this location

and the water quality would be beneficial for preserving overall quality of the landscape.

Martin’s Bluff

 Woody Debris. Addition of cover boards and woody debris along the edge of the beach may

benefit herpetofauna populations. Most of the fallen woody debris present in the upland

areas consisted of young paper birch which is not an optimal type of structure and often not

utilized by herpetofauna.

 Road Crossing. Because this site is bisected by Eastside Drive, it is recommended that wildlife

crossing signs are put in place to reduce road fatalities and increase public awareness.

 Educational Outreach. Wetland draining was observed adjacent to Martin’s Bluff along Great

Lakes coastal habitat. Altering this natural marsh habitat can limit its functionality for

numerous herpetofauna and other wildlife species. Educating the public about the

importance of wetlands and the necessity of obtaining permits for any activities that may

cause disturbance to the landscape is recommended.

Tara’s Meadow

 Woody Debris. The distribution of woody debris and other forms of cover would highly

benefit herpetofauna species and provide critical microhabitats and natural refugia needed to

support healthy amphibian and reptile populations.

 Site Maintenance. Although succession is occurring at a reduced rate, maintenance of the old

field community currently present would provide important habitat for herpetofauna species

that rely on more open areas.

Big Field

 Woody Debris. Currently many snakes use the artificial cover boards which were placed here

to study the snake population. A large number of snake eggs were found deposited under

these boards, which are frequently flipped by people checking for snakes. The addition of

natural woody debris would benefit snake populations by providing undisturbed refugia for

nesting and providing potential structure for hibernation.

 Site Maintenance. The open field characteristic of this site is extremely important for all

residing snake species and should be maintained and monitored

Black Hills Clearing

 Woody Debris. As most observed snakes within the site were located in a large pile of

residential debris, the addition of natural refugia would highly benefit snake populations in

the area.

 Site Maintenance. Although succession of this site is occurring at a slow rate, preventing the

encroachment of woody shrubs would preserve the open field habitat currently present that

many species of amphibian and reptile rely on.

 Signage. This site includes interpretive signage describing avian use of the area. The addition

of information regarding local amphibian and reptile species to this sign would increase

public awareness and potentially reduce the high level of road related mortalities around the

site.

Karl J. Erber Nature Preserve

 Habitat Monitoring. This site contained high quality coastal marsh habitat and upland forest

habitat. Persistent monitoring of the area to prevent encroachment of invasive species or

other forms of degradation is strongly encouraged.

McCauley’s Point

 Educational Outreach. This site is frequenting by many visitors and an ideal location for

educational and outreach opportunities. The addition of signs including information

regarding local habitats and the species that rely on them would increase public awareness

about the unique and important natural areas around the archipelago.

Orange Trail

 Habitat Monitoring. This site contained high quality upland forests and vernal habitats.

Persistent monitoring of the area to prevent encroachment of invasive species or other

forms of degradation is strongly encouraged.

 Woody Debris. The eastern portion of this site was lacking woody debris and the distribution

of debris and other forms of cover would be beneficial by providing critical microhabitats

and natural refugia needed to support healthy amphibian and reptile populations.

 Educational Outreach. With habitat occurring near a well maintained trail with newly installed

foot bridges there is the possibility of frequent disturbances to woody debris and other

habitat features surrounding the trail. These disturbances can deter and discourage

herpetofauna use. Educating the public about the importance of these habitats and to refrain

from disturbing it would benefit local wildlife.

Bonner’s Landing

 Habitat Monitoring. This site contained high quality coastal marsh and upland forest habitat.

Persistent monitoring of the area to prevent encroachment of invasive species or other

forms of degradation is strongly encouraged. The federally protected Pitcher’s thistle is

abundant at this site and emphasis should be placed on monitoring those areas known to

support the sensitive plant.

Sweeney’s Swamp

 Basking Structures. Basking structures are a limiting factor that can control the presence and

density of some herpetofauna. These structures are lacking in Sweeney’s Swamp and placing

woody debris sporadically along the shore will likely increase use of the bodies of water by

turtles and other herpetofauna species.

Garden Island

Due to the limited area on Garden Island assessed to date, additional surveys are needed to provide detailed habitat improvement recommendations. However, general recommendations of controlling subsidized predators and invasive plant monitoring and control are applicable to this site.

An overall recommendation for the island is maintenance of the several trails located throughout.

Clearing any fallen trees and supplementing the trail with flagging would be beneficial for future survey efforts by creating more accessible conditions.

Trout Island

 Invasive Control. Although complete eradication is unlikely due to historic and current use,

control and maintenance of invasive species would inhibit the spread and further loss of

natural biodiversity on the island.

 Woody Debris. The addition of woody debris outside the heavily wooded areas of the island

would be beneficial to reptile and amphibian populations.

Whiskey Island

 Invasive Control. Control and monitoring of invasive species on this island would help reduce

potential threat to native plants and prevent habitat degradation.

 Monitor Bird Colonies. Dense colonies of nesting birds inhibit the presence of herpetofauna

and other wildlife due to high levels of predation as well as reduced vegetative cover due to

guano. If the nesting population of Whiskey Island expands to include significantly more of

the island’s area, management measures should be considered as the persistence of

herpetofauna may become threatened.

High Island

 Invasive Control. Control and monitoring of non-native, invasive plants found on the island

would be a beneficial for preserving the natural community structure and promoting

increased biodiversity of the island.

 Basking Structures. Basking structures are limited in Maria Lake and placing woody debris

along the shore may result in higher densities of turtles and other herpetofaunal species.

 Preserve Open Habitat. Much of the interior habitat on the island included dense forests and

emergent wetlands with meadow/grassland communities being more limited. These open

communities provide critical habitat for herpetofauna as well as other sensitive indicator

species including butterflies. Maintaining these areas free of dense vegetation would be

beneficial for creating and maintaining a mosaic of habitats that can support a larger range of

wildlife.

 Trail Maintenance. Significant portions of trails on the island were not navigable due to

overgrown vegetation and large fallen trees. Clearing these paths of debris and placing

additional flagging would create more suitable conditions for future survey work.

Hog Island

Due to the limited area on Hog Island assessed to date, additional surveys are needed to provide detailed habitat improvement recommendations. However, general recommendations of controlling subsidized predators and invasive plant monitoring and control are applicable to this site.

An overall recommendation for the island is to conduct more comprehensive assessments of the island as it is likely that additional species may be present.

Conclusion

The Beaver Island Archipelago supports a wealth of biodiversity and a rich assemblage of

Michigan herpetofauna species. During HRM’s comprehensive surveys of the Archipelago including locations throughout Beaver Island as well as portions of several outer islands, 20 species of amphibians and reptiles were observed. Results included the documentation of new species occurrences on High, Hog, and Trout Island as well the presence one species not historically known for the archipelago itself. These surveys have been valuable in establishing a strong baseline of species richness and spatial distribution which can be used to monitor long-term health of the archipelago and compare effects of future restoration efforts. Continued monitoring and assessment of the amphibians and reptiles of the archipelago will help demonstrate the current status and distribution of these species and better solidify their critical role as indicators of ecosystem health.

Overall, the habitat on the Beaver Island Archipelago appears to be relatively well suited to the needs of the herpetofauna species found on the island; however, implementing restoration and recommendations provided through this work would be advantageous in futher improving habitat for amphibians, reptiles, and other wildlife. Natural areas with limited human disturbances will become exceedingly more important in the future and these islands will likely serve as a refuge for herpetofauna including rare species as well as unusual variants of common species in the future.

Tables

Table 1. Weather Data for transect surveys.

Site Date Start Start Start Start Start End End End End End Total Time Temp Humidity Wind Cloud Time Temp Humidity Wind Cloud Hours* (ºF) (%) Speed Cover (ºF) (%) Speed Cover (mph) (mph) Petritz Nature 7/27/2013 9:45 59.8 79 0 Cloudy 12:14 60 79 0 Partly 9.93 Preserve Cloudy Gull Harbor 7/27/2013 12:43 65 69.5 2 Mostly 3:05 64.5 69 1.5 Mostly 11.83 Nature Cloudy Cloudy Preserve Barney’s Lake 7/28/2013 9:40 60 73 0.8 Partly 1:00 59 78 1.7 Cloudy 16.67 Nature Cloudy Light Preserve Rain Barney’s Lake 7/31/2013 10:45 73 76 2.1 Partly 2:45 80 63 1.8 Partly 16 Nature Cloudy Cloudy Preserve Egg Lake 7/29/2013 9:12 59 81 1.1 Cloudy 11:10 66 74 2 Partly 9.83 Cloudy Johnny 7/29/2013 1:30 69 66 0.6 Partly 5:57 74 58 0.6 Mostly 22.25 Martin’s Trail Cloudy Sunny Lake 7/31/2013 3:21 69 76 5.4 Partly 5:36 71 77 2.6 Partly 9.00 Geneserath Cloudy Cloudy Little Sand 7/28/2013 2:10 60 78.5 1.8 Cloudy 4:50 62 81 1.6 Cloudy 13.33 Bay Nature Scattered Scattered Area Rain Rain Garden Island 7/30/2013 10:15 68 69 4 Partly 3:28 67 72 10 Partly 26.08 Cloudy Cloudy *Total hours=Time on site x number of observers.

Table 1. Continued

Start End Start Start Start End End End Start Wind End Wind Total Site Date Temp Humidity Cloud Temp Humidity Cloud Time Speed Time Speed Hours* (ºF) (%) Cover (ºF) (%) Cover (mph) (mph)

Font Lake - Partly Hidden Valley 7/13/2014 1:44 71 69 0 5:04 60 43 9 Clear 16.65 Cloudy Nature Trail

Trout Island 7/14/2014 8:57 56 85 3.6 Clear 11:15 N/A N/A N/A N/A 11.5

Partly Whiskey Island 7/14/2014 12:00 N/A N/A N/A N/A 2:35 63.5 95 4.5 12.9 Cloudy Con's Cove / Mostly 7/16/2014 9:02 57 N/A 2 Clear 11:27 66 65 1.6 12.1 Lucas Property Clear Mostly Luney's Point 7/16/2014 1:14 68 64 1 4:43 74 58 1.1 Clear 17.4 Clear Partly High Island 7/17/2014 10:16 69 52 1.3 Clear 8:10 64 58 2.4 49.5 Cloudy High Island 7/18/2014 10:00 69 72 2.5 Clear 3:12 76 61 2 Clear 26

Vesty's Field 7/19/2014 9:15 66 75 0.7 Clear 11:30 77 60 1.6 Clear 13.5

*Total hours=Time on site x number of observers.

Table 1. Continued

Start End Start Start Start End End End Start Wind End Wind Total Site Date Temp Humidity Cloud Temp Humidity Cloud Time Speed Time Speed Hours* (ºF) (%) Cover (ºF) (%) Cover (mph) (mph) Mostly Garden Island 7/20/2014 9:00 66 87 1.5 6:50 75 67 1.5 Clear 39.32 Clear

Andy's Trail 7/21/2014 10:45 73 72 0.8 Clear 6:28 77 71 0.5 Clear 30.88

Cranberry Bog, Partly 7/22/2014 9:10 71 77 0.8 12:56 65 83 4.3 Overcast 15.08 Iron Ore Bay Cloudy

Partly Martin's Bluff 7/23/2014 9:30 60.5 72 1.5 12:30 62 73 1.7 Cloudy 12 Cloudy

Tara's Meadow 7/23/2014 1:00 65 66 1.8 Cloudy 2:18 N/A N/A N/A N/A 5.2

Mostly Big Field 7/23/2014 2:28 N/A N/A N/A N/A 3:48 71 50 3.8 5.32 Clear

Black Hills 7/23/2014 4:18 75 48 1.2 Clear 5:40 73 0.9 72 Clear 5.48 Clearing

*Total hours=Time on site x number of observers.

Table 1. Continued

Start End Start Start Start End End End Start Wind End Wind Total Site Date Temp Humidity Cloud Temp Humidity Cloud Time Speed Time Speed Hours* (ºF) (%) Cover (ºF) (%) Cover (mph) (mph) Karl J. Erber Nature 8/24/2015 2:36 61.1 70 0.6 Overcast 3:54 59 77 0.8 Overcast 5.2 Preserve McCauley’s Light Heavy 8/24/2015 9:27 60.1 83.8 0.7 10:00 60.1 83.8 0.7 2.2 Point Rain Rain

Orange Trail 8/25/2015 4:51 59.4 83.0 0.0 Overcast 7:13 59.3 83.4 0.6 Overcast 9.47

Bonner’s Landing, McCauley’s 8/26/2015 9:30 56 82 4.0 Overcast 5:20 65 72 0.0 Overcast 31.33 Point, Sweeney’s Swamp

Partly Mostly Hog Island 8/27/2015 8:33 57.8 80 0.0 5:20 69 78 1.3 35.13 Cloudy Sunny

*Total hours=Time on site x number of observers.

Table 2. Amphibian and Reptile species observed during 2013 by location.

2013 Beaver Island Reptile and Amphibian Richness Gull Barney's Little Sand Petritz Harbor Lake Bay Common Name Species Name Nature Nature Nature Nature Preserve Preserve Preserve Preserve Frogs and Toads 2013 2013 2013 2013 Eastern American Toad Bufo americanus americanus* X X X Gray Treefrog Hyla chrysoscelis/versicolor Green Frog Rana clamitans melanota** X X Northern Leopard Frog Rana pipiens** X X Northern Spring Peeper Pseudacris crucifer crucifer X Wood Frog Rana sylvatica** Salamanders

Blue-spotted Salamander Ambystoma laterale Eastern Newt Notophthalmus viridescens viridescens X X Red-backed Salamander Plethodon cinereus X X X Spotted Salamander Ambystoma maculatum Snakes

Eastern Garter Snake Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis X X X Eastern Milk Snake Lampropeltis triangulum triangulum X Northern Red-bellied Snake Storeria occipitomaculata occipitomaculata X Northern Ribbon Snake Thamnophis sauritus septentrionalis X Northern Water Snake Nerodia sipedon sipedon X X Northern Ring-necked Diadophis punctatus edwardsii X X Snake Eastern Smooth Green Opheodrys vernalis X X Snake Turtles

Eastern Snapping Turtle Chelydra serpentina serpentina X X Midland Painted Turtle Chrysemys picta marginata X Total Amphibian Totals 1 2 6 5 Reptile Totals 0 3 7 5 Total 1 5 13 10 *Bufo = Anaxyrus **Rana = Lithobates

Table 2. Continued.

2013 Beaver Island Reptile and Amphibian Richness Johnny Lake Garden Common Name Species Name Egg Lake Martin’s Geneserath Island Trail

Frogs and Toads 2013 2013 2013 2013 Eastern American Toad Bufo americanus americanus* X X X Gray Treefrog Hyla chrysoscelis/versicolor X Green Frog Rana clamitans melanota** X X X X Northern Leopard Frog Rana pipiens** Northern Spring Peeper Pseudacris crucifer crucifer X X Wood Frog Rana sylvatica** X Salamanders Blue-spotted Salamander Ambystoma laterale X Eastern Newt Notophthalmus viridescens viridescens X X Red-backed Salamander Plethodon cinereus X X X Spotted Salamander Ambystoma maculatum Snakes Eastern Garter Snake Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis X X X X Eastern Milk Snake Lampropeltis triangulum triangulum Northern Red-bellied Snake Storeria occipitomaculata occipitomaculata X X Northern Ribbon Snake Thamnophis sauritus septentrionalis Northern Water Snake Nerodia sipedon sipedon X X X Northern Ring-necked X X Diadophis punctatus edwardsii Snake Eastern Smooth Green Opheodrys vernalis Snake Turtles Eastern Snapping Turtle Chelydra serpentina serpentina X Midland Painted Turtle Chrysemys picta marginata X X Total Amphibian Totals 1 8 5 3 Reptile Totals 3 4 2 5 Total 4 12 7 8 *Bufo = Anaxyrus **Rana = Lithobates

Table 3. Amphibian and Reptile species observed during 2014 by location.

2014 Beaver Island Reptile and Amphibian Richness Hidden Lucas Valley Property Nature Luney’s Vesty’s Common Name Species Name and Trail – Point Field Conn’s Font Cove Lake Frogs and Toads 2014 2014 2014 2014 Eastern American Toad Bufo americanus americanus* X X X Gray Treefrog Hyla chrysoscelis/versicolor Green Frog Rana clamitans melanota** X X X Northern Leopard Frog Rana pipiens** X X X Northern Spring Peeper Pseudacris crucifer crucifer X X X Wood Frog Rana sylvatica** X Salamanders Blue-spotted Salamander Ambystoma laterale X Eastern Newt Notophthalmus viridescens viridescens X Red-backed Salamander Plethodon cinereus X X X X Spotted Salamander Ambystoma maculatum Snakes Eastern Garter Snake Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis X X X X Eastern Milk Snake Lampropeltis triangulum triangulum Northern Red-bellied Snake Storeria occipitomaculata occipitomaculata X Northern Ribbon Snake Thamnophis sauritus septentrionalis Northern Water Snake Nerodia sipedon sipedon X X Northern Ring-necked Diadophis punctatus edwardsii Snake Eastern Smooth Green Opheodrys vernalis Snake Turtles Eastern Snapping Turtle Chelydra serpentina serpentina X Midland Painted Turtle Chrysemys picta marginata X Total Amphibian Totals 5 5 6 3 Reptile Totals 2 2 3 2 Total 7 5 9 5 *Bufo = Anaxyrus **Rana = Lithobates

Table 3. Continued

2014 Beaver Island Reptile and Amphibian Richness

Andy’s Cranberry Iron Ore Martin’s Common Name Species Name Trail Bog Bay Bluff

Frogs and Toads 2014 2014 2014 2014 Eastern American Toad Bufo americanus americanus* X X X X Gray Treefrog Hyla chrysoscelis/versicolor X Green Frog Rana clamitans melanota** X X Northern Leopard Frog Rana pipiens** Northern Spring Peeper Pseudacris crucifer crucifer X X X Wood Frog Rana sylvatica** X X Salamanders Blue-spotted Salamander Ambystoma laterale Eastern Newt Notophthalmus viridescens viridescens Red-backed Salamander Plethodon cinereus X X X Spotted Salamander Ambystoma maculatum Snakes Eastern Garter Snake Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis X X X Eastern Milk Snake Lampropeltis triangulum triangulum Northern Red-bellied Snake Storeria occipitomaculata occipitomaculata X Northern Ribbon Snake Thamnophis sauritus septentrionalis Northern Water Snake Nerodia sipedon sipedon X X X Northern Ring-necked X Diadophis punctatus edwardsii Snake Eastern Smooth Green X Opheodrys vernalis Snake Turtles Eastern Snapping Turtle Chelydra serpentina serpentina Midland Painted Turtle Chrysemys picta marginata Total Amphibian Totals 3 5 2 5 Reptile Totals 5 1 2 1 Total 8 6 4 6 *Bufo = Anaxyrus **Rana = Lithobates

Table 3. Continued

2014 Beaver Island Reptile and Amphibian Richness

Tara’s Black Hills Common Name Species Name Big Field Meadow Clearing

Frogs and Toads 2014 2014 2014 Eastern American Toad Bufo americanus americanus* X X Gray Treefrog Hyla chrysoscelis/versicolor Green Frog Rana clamitans melanota** Northern Leopard Frog Rana pipiens** Northern Spring Peeper Pseudacris crucifer crucifer Wood Frog Rana sylvatica** Salamanders Blue-spotted Salamander Ambystoma laterale Eastern Newt Notophthalmus viridescens viridescens Red-backed Salamander Plethodon cinereus X Spotted Salamander Ambystoma maculatum Snakes Eastern Garter Snake Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis X X X Eastern Milk Snake Lampropeltis triangulum triangulum Northern Red-bellied Snake Storeria occipitomaculata occipitomaculata X X X Northern Ribbon Snake Thamnophis sauritus septentrionalis X Northern Water Snake Nerodia sipedon sipedon Northern Ring-necked X X Diadophis punctatus edwardsii Snake Eastern Smooth Green X X X Opheodrys vernalis Snake Turtles Eastern Snapping Turtle Chelydra serpentina serpentina

Midland Painted Turtle Chrysemys picta marginata

Total Amphibian Totals 1 1 1 Reptile Totals 3 5 4 Total 4 6 5 *Bufo = Anaxyrus **Rana = Lithobates

Table 3. Continued

2014 Beaver Island Archipelago Reptile and Amphibian Richness Garden High Trout Whisky Common Name Species Name Island Island Island Island Frogs and Toads 2014 2014 2014 2014 Eastern American Toad Bufo americanus americanus* X X X Gray Treefrog Hyla chrysoscelis/versicolor X Green Frog Rana clamitans melanota** X X Northern Leopard Frog Rana pipiens** Northern Spring Peeper Pseudacris crucifer crucifer X X Wood Frog Rana sylvatica** Salamanders Blue-spotted Salamander Ambystoma laterale X Eastern Newt Notophthalmus viridescens viridescens X X Red-backed Salamander Plethodon cinereus X Spotted Salamander Ambystoma maculatum X Snakes Eastern Garter Snake Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis X X X X Eastern Milk Snake Lampropeltis triangulum triangulum X Northern Red-bellied Snake Storeria occipitomaculata occipitomaculata X Northern Ribbon Snake Thamnophis sauritus septentrionalis Northern Water Snake Nerodia sipedon sipedon X X X X Northern Ring-necked X Diadophis punctatus edwardsii Snake Eastern Smooth Green Opheodrys vernalis Snake Turtles Eastern Snapping Turtle Chelydra serpentina serpentina X X Midland Painted Turtle Chrysemys picta marginata X X Total Amphibian Totals 5 7 0 1 Reptile Totals 7 4 2 2 Total 12 11 2 3 *Bufo = Anaxyrus **Rana = Lithobates

Table 4. Amphibian and Reptile species observed during 2015 by location.

2015 Beaver Island Archipelago Reptile and Amphibian Richness Karl J. McCauley’s Bonner’s Common Name Species Name Erber Point Landing Frogs and Toads 2015 2015 2015 Eastern American Toad Bufo americanus americanus* X X X Gray Treefrog Hyla chrysoscelis/versicolor X Green Frog Rana clamitans melanota** X Northern Leopard Frog Rana pipiens** X X Northern Spring Peeper Pseudacris crucifer crucifer X Wood Frog Rana sylvatica** Salamanders Blue-spotted Salamander Ambystoma laterale Eastern Newt Notophthalmus viridescens viridescens X X Red-backed Salamander Plethodon cinereus X X X Spotted Salamander Ambystoma maculatum Snakes Eastern Garter Snake Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis X X X Eastern Milk Snake Lampropeltis triangulum triangulum Northern Red-bellied Snake Storeria occipitomaculata occipitomaculata X Northern Ribbon Snake Thamnophis sauritus septentrionalis Northern Water Snake Nerodia sipedon sipedon X Northern Ring-necked Snake Diadophis punctatus edwardsii X Eastern Smooth Green Snake Opheodrys vernalis Turtles Eastern Snapping Turtle Chelydra serpentina serpentina Midland Painted Turtle Chrysemys picta marginata Total Amphibian Totals 4 4 5 Reptile Totals 6 1 3 Total 6 5 8 *Bufo = Anaxyrus **Rana = Lithobates

Table 4. Continued

2015 Beaver Island Archipelago Reptile and Amphibian Richness Sweeney’s Common Name Species Name Orange Trail Hog Island Swamp Frogs and Toads 2015 2015 2015 Eastern American Toad Bufo americanus americanus* X X Gray Treefrog Hyla chrysoscelis/versicolor Green Frog Rana clamitans melanota** X X Northern Leopard Frog Rana pipiens** X X Northern Spring Peeper Pseudacris crucifer crucifer X X Wood Frog Rana sylvatica** Salamanders Blue-spotted Salamander Ambystoma laterale Eastern Newt Notophthalmus viridescens viridescens X Red-backed Salamander Plethodon cinereus X X X Spotted Salamander Ambystoma maculatum Snakes Eastern Garter Snake Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis X X Eastern Milk Snake Lampropeltis triangulum triangulum X Northern Red-bellied Snake Storeria occipitomaculata occipitomaculata Northern Ribbon Snake Thamnophis sauritus septentrionalis Northern Water Snake Nerodia sipedon sipedon X X Northern Ring-necked Snake Diadophis punctatus edwardsii Eastern Smooth Green Snake Opheodrys vernalis Northern Brown Snake Storeria dekayi X Turtles Eastern Snapping Turtle Chelydra serpentina serpentina X X Midland Painted Turtle Chrysemys picta marginata X Total Amphibian Totals 2 5 5 Reptile Totals 4 0 5 Total 6 5 10 *Bufo = Anaxyrus **Rana = Lithobates

Table 5. Historic observations on Beaver Island Archipelago

Beaver Garden High Whiskey Trout Squaw Herpetofauna Species Island Island Island Hog Island Island Island Island Eastern American Toad (Bufo americanus americanus)* X X X X X X X Gray Tree Frog (Hyla chrysoscelis/versicolor) X X Northern Spring Peeper (Pseudacris crucifer crucifer) X X X Bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana)** X Northern Green Frog (Rana clamitans melanota)** X X X Northern Leopard Frog (Rana pipiens)** X X Wood Frog (Rana sylvatica)** X Eastern Newt (Notophthalmus viridescens viridescens) X X X X Red-backed Salamander (Plethodon cinereus) X X X Spotted Salamander (A. maculatum) X Blue-spotted Salamander (Ambystoma laterale) X X X X Northern Ring-necked Snake (Diadophis punctatus edwardsii) X X Northern Water Snake (Nerodia sipedon sipedon) X X X X X X Northern Red-bellied Snake (Storeria o. occipitomaculata) X X X X X Northern Ribbon Snake (Thamnophis sauritus septentrionalis) X Eastern Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis sirtalis) X X X X X X Smooth Green Snake (Opheodrys vernalis) X Eastern Milk Snake (Lampropeltis triangulum triangulum) X X X X Eastern Snapping Turtle (Chelydra serpentina serpentina) X X Midland Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta marginata) X X X Amphibian Totals 11 7 5 1 1 4 2 Reptile Totals 9 7 5 1 3 1 3 Total 20 14 10 2 4 5 5 *Bufo = Anaxyrus **Rana = Lithobates

Appendix

Herpetofauna Species Summaries

Eastern Newt

When appropriate habitat is available, the Eastern Newt can be locally abundant. These salamanders require permanent ponds with vegetation as the adults and larvae are entirely aquatic. In its juvenile form, this species is entirely terrestrial, making it unique among Michigan salamanders. These juveniles, known as efts, will inhabit only high quality forests with proper cover such as rotting logs to live in and under. In Michigan there are two subspecies of the Eastern Newt, the Red-spotted

Newt and the Central Newt. Red-spotted Newts are found primarily in the western portions of

Michigan while Central Newts are found in eastern and northern ranges of Michigan though there is overlap between both forms as well. Eastern Newts are extremely sensitive to changes in habitat and will suffer when pollution is introduced or deforestation occurs (Harding 1997).

Eastern American Toad

The Eastern American Toad is a habitat generalist and can be found in a wide range of community types including woodlands, grasslands, marshes, and agricultural and suburban areas. Although it can be relatively common in some areas, the species has undergone noticeable decline in Michigan in recent years. Similar to many herpetofauna species, it is threatened by fragmentation or loss of critical habitat including breeding sites and by pollution, and disease. It has an adaptable diet and will feed on any insects that are available. This species reaches unusually large sizes on Michigan islands, including the Beaver Island Archipelago and islands in the Detroit River (unpublished data). Why island toads are larger is currently unknown (Harding 1997).

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Species of Greatest Conservation Need

Northern Leopard Frog (Rana pipiens)

The Northern Leopard Frog is listed as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Michigan. Once fairly common, populations of this frog suffered serious declines in the 60’s and 70’s and now can be uncommon in much of its range. The Northern Leopard Frog prefers habitats that are open and may consist of marshes, bogs, edges of water bodies, fields, meadows and even lawns. Northern Leopard Frogs feed primarily on invertebrates but full grown adults are known to eat small frogs such as Spring Peepers. A large variety of predators including humans feed upon all life stages of Leopard Frogs. During the spring, these frogs transition to shallow water for breeding but then disperse to dry land for the remainder of the summer. As with other amphibians, pollutants in the water have a negative effect on this species but the leopard frog tends to be particularly sensitive. The leopard frog is also sensitive to changes in the pH of water and generally does not do well in acidified waters. This frog also faces pressure from human collection for science and bait. Overall, it is believed though that the Northern Leopard Frog has to potential to recover from its reduced populations if the proper habitat is available (Harding 1997).

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Spotted Salamander (Ambystoma maculatum)

The Spotted Salamander is a medium sized salamander ranging between 4.3-9.8 inches in length. Listed as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need under Michigan’s Wildlife Action Plan the Spotted Salamander is recognized by its dark body covered with two rows of yellow or orange spots that run the length of the body that are sometimes present on the legs as well. These salamanders are found within deciduous or mixed woodlands that are wet but are not subject to flooding. Adults spend most of their lives underground in burrows but can be occasionally found under cover like rotting logs. These salamanders are most commonly seen in the spring during breeding season around ponds that are either in or nearby the forest the adults live in. Adult Spotted Salamanders primarily feed upon invertebrates while the larvae will feed on crustaceans, small fish and other larvae. Predators for this species include snakes, turtles, herons and raccoons. Human activities are the primary threat to this species particularly logging and development although the species is also collected for scientific use or the pet trade. Roads pose a particularly prevalent threat as they can commonly separate woodland habitat from the nearby pond essential for this species breeding (Harding 1997; Holman 2012).

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Blue-spotted Salamander (Ambystoma laterale)

A medium sized salamander (3 to 5.5 inches) the Blue-spotted Salamander is listed as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Michigan under the Wildlife Action Plan. Bodies of this species are usually black with blue spots covering the body appearing on the limbs as well. The belly of this species may be slightly lighter than the body. A species of mole salamanders, Blue-spots live in both deciduous and coniferous forests so long as there are nearby vernal pools in which to breed. Larvae of this species tend to be dark brown with dark mottling on the tail. Interestingly this species will readily hybridize with other Ambystoma making individuals difficult to identify at times as true Blue- spotted Salamanders. Adults of this species are commonly found beneath logs, rocks, and leaf litter. The diet of these salamanders consists primarily of invertebrates during all of their life stages. One of the largest threats to this species is clear-cutting forests and the destruction of habitat. Individuals within populations will survive in areas with low to intermediate disturbances and can sometimes be found undercover within suburban yards(Harding 1997; Holman 2012).

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Eastern Smooth Green Snake (Opheodrys vernalis)

Smooth Green Snakes also known as Eastern Smooth Green Snakes range from about a foot long to just over two feet long and are listed as Species of Greatest Conservation Need by Michigan’s Wildlife Action Plan. As it’s name implies this snake is entirely bright green with a cream colored underside. This snake prefers to inhabit moist grassy places like marshes, meadows, and lake edges. These snakes are commonly found under cover objects including logs, flat rocks, and debris such as boards and tar paper. Smooth Green Snake’s diet is primarily insects and they tend to specialize on grasshoppers and crickets. This snake will lay 3-13 eggs that have ranging incubation times and in some cases may be born alive. Hibernation for Smooth Green Snakes occurs in hibernacula with other species of small snakes. Unfortunately these snakes are decreasing in numbers and in some cases have faced extirpation in the Great Lakes Basin. The largest threat to the Smooth Green Snake is agriculture as it not only destroys habitat used by the Smooth Green Snake but it also employs the use of pesticides which kill off the main source of food. Interestingly this species is one of the few species of snakes that generally does not face persecution and aggression from people because of their unique coloring (Harding 1997).

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Northern Ring-necked Snake (Diadophis punctatus edwardsii)

The Northern Ring-necked Snake is a small species that will rarely exceed a foot and a half in length. This species is listed as a Species of Greatest Conservation need by the Michigan Wildlife Action Plan. Darkly colored these snakes are distinguishable by their bright orange or yellow ring around its necks. Ring-necks prefer moist shaded woodlands but can also be found in fringe habitat between woodlands and other community types. This snake is commonly found below or inside rotting logs which can make assessing local populations challenging. Because of this preferred habitat as well predation from natural sources is usually a small concern for maintaining these populations as only when individuals leave the protection of their hide could they possibly be taken. These snakes feed on an assortment of small snakes, lizards, frogs, salamanders, earthworms, slugs, and insect larvae. This species hibernates underground, in burrows or crevices which are either naturally occurring or made by other animals. In many areas this species has undergone dramatic declines. Northern Ring-necked Snakes typically are found in colonies and entire populations can be heavily affected even by small disturbances to their preferred habitat. As such development and habitat fragmentation are serious threats to this species (Harding 1997; Holman 2012).

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