Since 1984, the Wisconsin DNR began enlisting the help of the public to listen for and track frogs and toads throughout the state; this coming soon after a noticeable decline in the frog and toad population. Since then, the DNR has continued the effort with their annual frog and toad survey.
Andrew Badje is a conservation biologist with the Wisconsin DNR and is looking for volunteers to drive, listen, and report. “It's a good way for us to keep track of different populations,” says Badje who notes that the survey also offers valuable information that allows the department to better monitor and protect the animals, as well as educate the public.
Volunteer surveyors can sign-up for a location and a time. "They only survey one night, and they get to pick which night they go out," says Badje. "It's a little bit more convenient for the volunteer." After getting to their determined location, volunteers are asked to listen for five minutes and track the different species that are heard.
For more information or to sign-up, visit the Wisconsin DNR website.
