Salvage and translocation of endangered Santa Cruz long-toed salamander larvae

Like many biphasic amphibians that migrate between non-breeding upland and aquatic breeding locations, the endangered Santa Cruz long-toed salamander (Ambystoma macrodactylum croceum) is susceptible to the effects of habitat loss, alteration, and fragmentation The subspecies is particularly imperiled due to its restricted range within a heavily populated landscape in southwest Santa Cruz County and extreme northwest Monterey County Threats to survival and recovery include ongoing modification or loss of upland habitat and increased barriers to terrestrial movements during migration and dispersal Typical barriers include houses and related infrastructure including retaining walls, busy roads, vertical curbs, and solid fences that extend below grade. In many instances, these barriers prevent or severely reduce access between breeding ponds and surrounding upland habitat, while also forcing individuals to navigate converted grasslands and/or other unsuitable terrain