Australia's largest citizen science frog count maps rare species

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 4 Nov, 00:51 · Archive

More than 100,000 people are contributing frog-sound recordings to track endangered frogs and invasive cane toads across Australia.

Australia's largest citizen science program is enlisting more than 100,000 people to record frog sounds from their backyards in November as part of FrogID week. Participants will contribute to a database of more than 1.5 million frog-sound recordings, helping scientists map endangered species and track invasive pests.

The Southern Bell frog, which became locally extinct in the lower Murray during the millennium drought, is among 24 threatened species being documented through the program. Dr Jodi Rowley, curator of amphibians and reptiles at the Australian Museum, said the initiative had become 'a game changer' as natural reserves become swamped with private land. More than 13 new frog species have been discovered during the program, with 86 per cent of all records coming from private lands.

The recordings have also helped scientists trace cane toads that have hitchhiked on vehicles, trains and freight across the country from the Northern Territory and Queensland. One cane toad was found in the Eyre Peninsula town of Whyalla in October, prompting calls for people to check vehicles before travelling. Dr Rowley said there was growing realisation among Australians 'that we have these amazing creatures'.

How it is being reported

• 'Game changer': National frog count fills science gapAustralia's largest citizen science program is turning backyards into field sites in a bid to rediscover a forgotten amphibian and track pests like cane toads.Perth Now · 4 Nov, 00:41
• 'Game changer': National frog count fills science gapAustralia's largest citizen science program is turning backyards into field sites in a bid to rediscover a forgotten amphibian and track pests like cane toads.The West Australian · 4 Nov, 00:41

In this story: Southern Bell frog · Jodi Rowley · Australian Museum · Australia · Northern Territory · Queensland · Whyalla

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