A Survey of the Herpetofauna of the Comanche National Grasslands in Southeastern
Colorado
Appendix 7:
Photographs of selected habitat and species of amphibians and
reptiles observered during the 1995-1997 field seasons
 |
| Typical shortgrass and mixed grass prairie which covers much of southeastern
Colorado. Note the continuous coverage of grasses, which is required
by many amphibian and reptile species for cover and also provides forage
for larger animals such as pronghorn antelope. |
 |
| Heavily overgrazed prairie with extensive fecal contamination, frequently
seen in Baca County. Overgrazing reduces the extent and diversity of
plant species, which in turn affects insect species, which in turn negatively
affects insectivorous amphibian and reptile abundance. Soil compaction
and fouling of ponds can also result, leading to decreased breeding
success. However, grazing per se is not incompatible with conservation
of native herpetofauna, if rotation of herds allows recovery of forbs. |
Previous Section -- Western hognose snake "anterior
end" (
Heterodon nasicus nasicus) & Desert massasauga "anterior end" (
Sistrurus
catenatus edwardsi)
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Next Section -- Ecotone between shortgrass prairie
and juniper woodlands & Rocky bluffs above Cottonwood Canyon
