7 September 2008
FROG CENSUS HOPS INTO ACTION
With an array of amphibians and experts on hand, volunteers got a sample of what to listen out for when the Melbourne Water Frog Census 2008-09 was launched at Werribee Open Range Zoo today (September 7).
The Frog Census, which began in 2001, is a community-based frog monitoring program in which volunteers record frog calls at their local rivers, creeks and wetlands. The frog calls are analysed and the call locations plotted on a map to form a picture of the distribution of frogs across the region.
The census aims to monitor frog populations across the Western Port and Port Phillip region to indicate waterway health; raise awareness about wildlife that depend on our waterways; and encourage people to get to know their region’s waterways.
Census is on: Melbourne Water Waterwatch co-ordinator Melanie Smith, Sasha Roos, chairman Cheryl Batagol, and Sarah Crinall
Speaking at the launch, Melbourne Water chairman Cheryl Batagol said the wonderful thing about the Frog Census was that volunteers could record frog calls all year, anywhere in the Port Phillip and Westernport Region.
“Frogs call throughout the year, but spring and autumn are the most vocal times for most species. We’re now accepting calls throughout the year and giving volunteers feedback on their calls within a few weeks.
“Since Melbourne Water started the Frog Census in 2001 our volunteers have recorded 13 species of frogs across the region and sent in over 3,000 recordings.
“The spring 2007 and autumn 2008 Census results have uncovered some significant finds with a higher than usual number of recordings for two threatened species: the Growling Grass Frog and the Southern Brood Frog.
“Additionally, our autumn 2008 census included a Common Spade Foot recording. While this species is not listed as threatened or significant, it’s only the second time it’s been recorded in the census.”
Ms Batagol said some volunteers had visited up to 10 sites a night and were out late making recordings.
“This demonstrates incredible passion and commitment and we gratefully acknowledge the contribution of these volunteers.”
Melbourne Water sends the census results to the Department of Sustainability and Environment’s Victorian Wildlife Atlas – the official state registry for flora and fauna, which is used to make decisions about the status of species including threatened species nominations.
This year is an especially exciting year to be participating in the Frog Census because 2008 is International Year of the Frog. This international campaign aims to generate awareness of global amphibian extinction and raise funds for captive breeding programs.
To participate in the Melbourne Water Frog Census log onto the Frog Census website or email frogs@melbournewater.com.au
Media Contact: Nicolas McGay +613 9235 2278 +61 (0)438 981 836