Not many know that watching frogs is a form of wildlife observation. Usually, a visual enhancement device is used. The activity is predominantly nocturnal and that could be the reason why there are not many enthusiasts.
Frog-watching is a ‘thrilling and highly enjoyable’ activity, says Sathyan Meppayur, vice-president, Malabar Natural History Society (MNHS). The society is organising a frog-watching programme at the Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary, near Kakkayam, on October 2 and 3 in connection with the Wildlife Week observance.
The programme, being organised in association with the Forest Department and the Zoological Survey of India, Kozhikode centre, will feature presentations, talks, surveys, and recordings of frog sounds, says Jafer Palot, society secretary.
Herpetologists Varad Giri from the Bombay Natural History Society and Anil Zacharia from Wayanad are expected to attend the event, Dr. Palot says.
The first of the amphibian surveys were conducted by the British in the 1800s. The later surveys were in the 20th century and in the early years of this century, Mr. Meppayur says.
“Around 20 new species of frogs, some of them belonging to very ancient genus, were discovered in recent surveys,” he says.
The recent discoveries could arouse a lot of interest in frogs among scientists and amateur watchers, he says.
“It is in this context that we have decided to conduct the frog survey at the Malabar Wild Life Sanctuary at Kakkayam, where different species of ‘endemic’ frogs can be found due to the relatively high level of rainfall in the region,” Mr. Meppayur says.
An interactive app named ‘ Frog Find, ’ available on Google Play, also points to the increasing interest among people, he says.
The surveyors among other things will record the distribution, status, and the population density of frogs in the region during the programme.
Those interested may contact: 94474 70439.
