FrogID Week Ribbits the Nation for the Seventh Year

Australia’s largest frog count is back for another year with the seventh annual FrogID Week, from November 8 to 17. Led by the Australian Museum Centre for Citizen Science, FrogID is a free app with the mission of protecting Australia’s frog populations. The app, which is free and available for download, is one of Australia’s most successful citizen science projects, and has become an essential tool for research, conservation, and the discovery of new species.

Over 240 species of frogs are under threat from habitat loss, disease and climate change. 

The app allows citizens to record frog calls so that scientists can listen and identify the species and help provide valuable data to better understand and conserve their habitats. With over 737,963 calls submitted, and more than 1 million verified frogs, almost 240 species have been found since the launch of the app in 2017. 

Dr. Jodi Rowley, the Australian Museum’s Lead Scientist for FrogID and Curator of Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Biology, emphasised that the growing participation in FrogID Week showcases the power of citizen science in deepening our understanding of biodiversity in the face of climate change.

“FrogID Week 2024 aims to collect at least 15,000 verified frog calls, broadening our data coverage from 38% to over 40% of Australia, with a target to reach 50% by 2027,” Dr. Rowley said.

“Planet’s Most Threatened Animals”

FrogID has significantly advanced frog conservation efforts, contributing to scientific publications, discovering new species, and supporting conservation assessments under Australia’s Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act.

Australian Museum Director and CEO, Kim McKay, highlighted the impact of FrogID in both gathering critical data on frog populations and engaging Australians in conservation efforts.

“The public’s commitment helped us reach our millionth frog call in February, underscoring Australians’ dedication to the protection of our frogs,” said Ms. McKay.

Dr. Rowley noted that frogs, highly sensitive to environmental changes, serve as indicators of overall ecological health. “Frogs are among the planet’s most threatened animals. Monitoring frog populations not only aids frog conservation but also provides insights into our environment’s health,” said Dr. Rowley.

“Each year, FrogID Week builds upon past data, driving groundbreaking research and delivering valuable information to better protect these essential species. Every recording on FrogID makes a difference!”

The frog count ends Sunday, November 17, so hop to it and log some frogs!