Habitat preference of the American bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus) in the lower watershed of the Mora River in Northern New Mexico

The means to control and manage against the effects of invasive species has not been well explored. We believe that an understanding of the habitat preference by an invasive species provides a theoretical background on which to base habitat management decisions. In this study we utilize temperature sensitive radio telemetry transmitters attached to four adult bullfrogs to document the habitat preference of post-metamorphic bullfrogs on the Mora River located at Wind River ranch in northern New Mexico. Preliminary data for the month of July, suggests a strong correlation between time spent in daytime hours and banks consisting of heavy or thick vegetation. This study provides a foundation on which to develop effective strategies to better manage and control invasive American bullfrogs in the lower watershed riparian ecosystem of the Mora River in northern New Mexico.