Residents of the Fleurieu Peninsula and Kangaroo Island are being urged to lend their ears and their smartphones to a crucial conservation effort as the FrogWatch SA Seasonal Census enters its final four days. This citizen science initiative, running from December 1 to December 8, provides a unique opportunity for the community to contribute to vital ecological research by recording frog calls in their local area.

Frogs play a key role as indicators of environmental health. Their presence—or absence—can reveal much about the condition of ecosystems, particularly wetlands. By taking part in this census, locals can help ecologists monitor frog populations and better understand seasonal patterns in their activity. This data not only aids in tracking the health of the environment but also informs strategies to protect these vital amphibians and their habitats.

Getting involved is simple. Participants can start by downloading the free FrogSpotter app, available on both iOS and Android devices. The app allows users to record frog calls and submit them directly to the FrogWatch SA database. Whether the recording is made in a backyard, a local park, or near a waterway, every contribution is valuable. Even if no frogs are heard, this absence is still significant, especially in areas where frogs have been recorded in the past.

When recording, participants are encouraged to enable their device’s GPS to ensure accurate location data. Each submission is analysed by experts to identify species and map their distribution, building a clearer picture of frog populations across South Australia.

The FrogWatch SA Seasonal Census is a collaborative effort spearheaded by Green Adelaide and the Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board. It highlights the power of community involvement in ecological monitoring and underscores the importance of collective action in preserving biodiversity. For many participants, the experience also serves as a meaningful way to connect with nature and learn about the fascinating diversity of frog species in their region.

With the census drawing to a close, there is no better time to get involved. Each recording contributes to a broader understanding of the state’s ecosystems, helping to safeguard the future of its frog populations. For more information and to join the effort, visit the FrogWatch SA website today.