Partners:
Shell Canada, Manning Diversified Forestry Research Fund, North American Waterfowl Management Plan, Alberta Conservation Association, Alberta Sport, Recreation, Parks and Wildlife Foundation, Daishowa- Marubeni International Ltd., Alberta Sustainable Resource Development, and the University of Alberta
Opportunity:
The Boreal toad is possibly the most sensitive amphibian species in northwestern Alberta’s boreal forest. It requires standing water for breeding and larval development, terrestrial habitat for foraging, and particular conditions for overwintering. Understanding how toads use different habitats, how they move between them, and how they react to industrial activity provides important information about habitat needs and the impact of manmade features.
Industry partners and organizations within the Alberta Innovation system collaborated on research to determine the impact of industrial activity in creating breeding ponds for the Boreal toad. AITF scientists strapped tiny radios to the backs of Boreal toads and followed them using radio receivers. The goal was to see how adult toads use available habitat and how they react to disturbances due to various industrial activities. In particular, the study examined whether or not toads successfully used borrow pits (small, open pits and depressions formed when soil is removed to make roads) as breeding sites.
Status
Preliminary research undertaken by Alberta Innovates – Technology Futures scientists determined the toads prefer certain types of habitats during the foraging season. Being able to follow toads to their overwintering sites has increased the available knowledge and data on the specific habitats toads prefer for hibernation. The research also suggests borrow pits may be of lower quality than natural sites for larval development based on the body size of the toad young (who are called metamorphs).
The research results and technologies developed through these and other efforts enable enhanced, environmentallysustainable development policies and practices. In addition to providing a foundation upon which further research can be developed, insights gleaned will support the development of land management tools designed to address the needs of native species, like toads.
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