More than 350 endangered Mountain Yellow-legged Frogs have been reintroduced into the San Bernardino Mountains, marking one of the largest releases to date and a hopeful milestone for the species’ recovery. The Big Bear Alpine Zoo was proud to play an important role in this collaborative effort alongside Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, UCLA, The Wildlands Conservancy, and other partners.
The Mountain Yellow-legged Frog, once common in our local waterways, has been listed as endangered due to habitat loss, disease, and invasive predators. Thanks to years of conservation work, captive breeding, and now carefully managed releases, the species is beginning to make its return.
At a protected site managed by The Wildlands Conservancy, frogs raised at Birch Aquarium, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, UCLA, and the Big Bear Alpine Zoo were carried by hand to the water’s edge and released. Some were placed directly into the lake, while others spent a few days in monitored habitats before joining their new wild home. Each frog was microchipped for future monitoring, allowing researchers to track their health and survival.
This release represents more than just numbers. It marks the second successful reintroduction at this site, where frogs had not been seen since 1951. Now, they are hopping once again in the waters of the San Bernardino Mountains.
The Big Bear Alpine Zoo is proud to partner in this critical conservation work and remains committed to protecting native species, preserving biodiversity, and ensuring a future for wildlife in our mountains.
A Future for Frogs
Through collaboration, dedication, and science, the Mountain Yellow-legged Frog is getting another chance to thrive. Together with our partners, we are working toward the day when these frogs no longer need endangered species protection and can once again flourish in their natural habitats.
Photos courtesy of Birch Aquarium.