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Bullfrogs invade Flagstaff community pond

The Arizona Game & Fish Department along with Coconino County are working to drain a community pond near Kachina Village after several dozen bullfrogs were found. 

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. - The Arizona Game & Fish Department along with Coconino County are working to drain a community pond near Kachina Village after several dozen bullfrogs were found.

Bullfrogs are considered an invasive species not native to the pond and their existence could spell disaster for that area's fragile ecosystem.

"Most likely someone brought in bullfrogs and put them in the pond," said Larry Phoenix, a field supervisor with Game and Fish. "They could've been tadpoles at the time, they could've been full grown, they could've been someone's pet."

The frogs were first discovered back in June and the pond was netted, but four weeks ago several more were spotted living in the thick vegetation growing in the water.

Another concern is the eventual destination of the water in the pond, that flows south several miles.

"The pond drains into Kachina wetland, which drains into pump house wash, which drains into Oak Creek," Phoenix said. "The ecosystem that’s now been established in Oak Creek would be out of balance."

Once the pond is fully drained, thick vegetation will also be removed in an effort to maintain the pond for the insects, plants and animals that should be living there.

Game and Fish also says that fish being removed from one lake and put into another has also been a problem, which Phoenix says creates a cost that goes beyond the environment.

Game and Fish recommends these tips for anyone who needs to get rid of any aquatic animals: http://www.habitattitude.net/

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