Yosemite Toad - Ecology

Ecology

The Yosemite toad utilizes montane meadows, sub-alpine meadows, riparian areas and the surrounding forest matrix as critical habitat during the various stages of its life history. Populations of these toads have been experiencing some declines in recent years. Factors such as climate change, habitat loss and pathogens may be contributing to the decrease of toad numbers. Anaxyrus canorus may be, more specifically, threatened by a fungus known as a chytrid. Cattle grazing has been implicated in the past as a contributor to the toad decline, however, recent research suggests cows grazing montane meadows may be compatible with toad conservation efforts.