Prepare to croak, ribbit, and hop into action as Corowa and District Landcare invite you to join the annual FrogID Week from November 3 to November 12, 2023.
This citizen science project aims to deepen the community’s understanding of the health and distribution of frogs across Australia, and you can be part of this nationwide initiative.
Corowa is home to the endangered Sloane’s Froglet. This charming amphibian species is typically associated with periodically inundated areas in grasslands, and in Corowa, it finds its sanctuary at the Whitehead St Wetlands. These wetlands host a thriving population of Sloane’s Froglets, making them a crucial hotspot for the conservation of this endangered species.
Australia boasts an astonishing diversity of over 240 native frog species, many of which face significant threats due to habitat loss, pollution, disease, and the impacts of climate change. Frogs are essential in maintaining healthy ecosystems by controlling insect populations and serving as bioindicators of environmental quality. Their wellbeing directly affects the health of our environment and, ultimately, our own wellbeing.
Corowa District Landcare is actively engaged in promoting frog conservation and offers a valuable resource for local schools through their “hop-into-frogs” program. This resource enables students to explore the fascinating world of frogs while educating them about their critical role in our ecosystem.
FrogID Week is Australia’s largest frog count, held annually to engage citizens in monitoring and recording frog calls using the free FrogID app. By collecting this data, participants contribute to a comprehensive understanding of frog health and distribution throughout the country. This initiative aims to monitor frog populations over time, shedding light on how frogs and their habitats respond to the challenges posed by a changing planet.
Participating in FrogID Week from November 3 to November 12, 2023, is an opportunity for residents of Corowa and the wider community to make a meaningful contribution to the conservation of Australia’s unique frog species. You can become a citizen scientist by downloading the FrogID app and start recording frog calls during this period. Your efforts will help create a better picture of Australia’s frogs, their ecosystems, and how we can protect them for future generations.
For more information and to get involved, visit the official FrogID Week website at www.frogid.net.au/frog-id-week and learn more about this exciting initiative at the Australian Museum’s website australian.museum/event/frogid-week-2023/