Survival, Movements and Habitat Use of Captive‐bred and Reintroduced Dusky Gopher Frogs

Despite the growing roles of assisted reproduction and captive breeding in reintroductions, we have a limited understanding of the viability of these animals once released. We radiotracked endangered dusky gopher frogs Lithobates sevosus for up to 24 days after they were released into the wild to (1) assess the viability of juvenile frogs produced using artificial fertilization and raised in captivity until four weeks post‐metamorphosis, (2) investigate survival rates, movement patterns, and habitat use and (3) examine whether it is more beneficial to release frogs at the pond edge or into burrows in the uplands. Released frogs had a relatively high survival rate (76% overall, with mortality ceasing after 14 days) and behaved as expected, moving fairly long distances (up to 153 m daily and 426 m total) and locating suitable shelters, including burrows and stump holes. Frogs that sheltered underground had a 22% higher survival rate than frogs that did not, highlighting the importance of these habitat features. Compared to frogs released into burrows, frogs released at the pond had a 33% lower survival rate, spent less time underground and moved farther and more often, likely while searching for shelter. Frogs selected habitat characteristics that are associated with effects of fire, including an open canopy and abundant ground vegetation. Our study demonstrates that juvenile dusky gopher frogs successfully transitioned to their natural habitat, and that any effects of artificial fertilization or captivity on juvenile viability appear to be minimal. Releasing frogs into areas with abundant underground refuges and using frequent prescribed fire to maintain the habitat should benefit dusky gopher frog populations and improve the success of reintroductions.