A Growing Program, A Record-Breaking Release
What started in 2011 as a partnership between DZCA and CPW has grown into one of Colorado’s most meaningful amphibian conservation efforts. Each year, our breeding colony at the Zoo produces tadpoles that are carefully raised and prepared for reintroduction into the wild. This year, that colony produced over 3,500 tadpoles, a significant increase from previous years and a testament to the dedication of our animal care and veterinary teams.
The preparation for the release at the Leadville site included extensive field work, a 2-year land survey, and habitat preparation between CPW, the Arkansas Basin Toad Team, and the Bureau of Land Management. The combination of expert site selection, rigorous breeding protocols, and the sheer enthusiasm of 27 volunteers made this year’s release a milestone moment for the program.
This release is also part of a larger cross-functional effort across the state. Colorado’s newly completed State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP) — a comprehensive guide for restoring Colorado’s wildlife and the habitats that support healthy populations — recognizes the boreal toad as a priority species. DZCA’s Recovery and Reintroduction program is one of many collaborative efforts across organizations statewide working toward the goals outlined in the SWAP.
