We examined patterns of dispersal undergone by recently metamorphosed California Red-legged frogs (Rana draytonii), a federally threatened species. We used radio telemetry techniques to track the movement patterns and habitat use of metamorphs dispersing from an established breeding pond in an oak-savannah habitat in Sonoma County, CA over the course of two field seasons (2022-2023 and 2023-2024). By sampling multiple times in a 24-hour period, we were able to evaluate the effects of weather (daily precipitation accumulation, daily relative humidity, daily average wind speed, daily average temperature) and time of day on movement rates (m/hr) demonstrated by dispersing metamorphs. Additionally, we examined the difference in dispersal strategies undergone by froglets (dispersing away to a secondary site or remaining resident of the breeding pond). We found that movement patterns changed with respect to time of day, body condition, and moisture-related weather patterns. Despite their naïveté, metamorphs demonstrated a non-random orientation away from the pond, suggesting a preference for specific landscape features.

Hale is a recent graduate from Sonoma State University where they earned their MS in Biology, conducting the research they are about to present to us now. In addition to their work with California Red-legged Frogs, Hale has worked on studies centered around American Bullfrogs, California Tiger Salamanders, Foothill Yellow-legged Frogs, California Giant Salamanders, and even captive Southern White Rhinos as an undergraduate. They are especially passionate about the study and conservation of wild herps, and science communication as a whole.