Will the Illinois chorus frog (Pseudacris streckeri illinoensis) survive in Arkansas? A case study of a secretive species in need of protection

Abstract

The range of the Illinois chorus frog (Pseudacris streckeri illinoensis) in Arkansas is restricted to the eastern quarter of Clay County. Nearly 100% of this species native sand-prairie habitat has been converted to agricultural fields. The original range of the Illinois chorus frog encompassed at least 9,982 ha. Although two new localities were identified in 2002, the current range is only 4,399 ha in 2002. This represents a 56% range contraction since 1992. Calling was heard in only 44.5% of its original range. This species may be experiencing a severe range contraction. Decay models predict the extirpation of the Illinois chorus frog in Arkansas within 17.5 to 101 yr. Suggested factors contributing to this range contraction may include drought, pesticide use, changes in surface water hydrology, U.S. E.P.A. Best management practices, and this species limited ability to recolonize extirpated sites.