Close to 650 Rare Amphibians Released Near Los Angeles

Over 600 Rare Amphibians Released in Effort to Save Species from Extinction Near Los Angeles

The Los Angeles Zoo recently orchestrated the release of more than 600 rare tadpoles and frogs into the streams located in the San Gabriel Mountains just north of Los Angeles. A collaborative effort between the L.A. Zoo, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), and the Aquarium of the Pacific saw the release of a total of 643 amphibians, consisting of 450 tadpoles and 193 subadult frogs of the endangered southern mountain yellow-legged frog species. These animals, with the exception of 38 rescue frogs, had been under the care of the L.A. Zoo for their entire lifespan before being reintroduced into their natural habitat.

The southern mountain yellow-legged frog, known for its medium size measuring between 1.5 to 3.25 inches, features a distinct brown and yellow colouration with dark spots that aid in camouflage. The species, native to the San Gabriel, San Bernardino, and San Jacinto Mountains in California, has been considered endangered since 2007. In an ongoing effort to preserve this species, the Los Angeles Zoo has been breeding these frogs in a highly controlled environment, ensuring their survival beyond the vulnerable stages of development. The tadpoles are nurtured in a regulated temperature setting equipped with cutting-edge technology to maintain water purity, allowing them to grow in optimal conditions before their eventual release back into the wild.

Luc Myers, an animal keeper at the Los Angeles Zoo, expressed his excitement about being part of the recent release, stating that hiking through the San Gabriels while carrying these precious frogs was truly a remarkable experience. The L.A. Zoo’s commitment to the conservation and protection of the southern mountain yellow-legged frog is evident in their long-standing program that began in 2006. Since its inception, the program has overseen the release of over 6,000 tadpoles and frogs into the streams of the San Gabriel Mountains, underlining their dedication to species preservation.

The latest release in July 2025, which took place at a secluded site within the San Gabriel Mountains, was carefully orchestrated to safeguard the young amphibians and their new environment. Followed by a series of releases that commenced in 2007, these conservation efforts reflect the ongoing commitment of the Southern Mountain Yellow-Legged Frog Recovery Program initiated by the Los Angeles Zoo and its partner organizations. With plans to further expand the program, the L.A. Zoo is extending its support by allocating additional space to enhance the care and development of tadpoles before their eventual release, thereby increasing their chances of survival.

The successful reintroduction of these rare amphibians back into their natural habitat marks a significant milestone in the ongoing conservation efforts aimed at safeguarding the southern mountain yellow-legged frog from extinction. As these delicate creatures find their way back to the streams of the San Gabriel Mountains, the collective efforts of the L.A. Zoo and its conservation partners continue to make a tangible impact in preserving the rich biodiversity of the region.

In conclusion, the release of over 600 rare tadpoles and frogs into the San Gabriel Mountains is a testament to the unwavering dedication of conservationists towards protecting endangered species and restoring balance to fragile ecosystems. The critical role played by institutions like the Los Angeles Zoo underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in wildlife preservation, serving as a beacon of hope for the continued survival of the southern mountain yellow-legged frog and other vulnerable species in the region.