Binder Park Zoo Needs Help Counting Frogs

Binder Park Zoo needs volunteers to help with what's called a "Herp Survey." The purpose of the Michigan Herp Atlas Project is to document what native amphibian and reptile species are living on the zoo’s 400+ acres. Michigan's native amphibians and reptiles are collectively known as herpetofauna, or "herps".

The Herp survey at Binder Park Zoo is on May 17 from 9-4 p.m. Individuals and/or families (no children under 6) can volunteer in the morning, afternoon or all day to help count amphibians and reptiles! Volunteers must be at least 13 years old, or if younger must be accompanied by an adult. Binder Park officials say volunteers should dress for the weather and hilly terrain and should bring bug spray, sunscreen, and rubber boots.

Amanda Bailiff, Binder Park Zoo Education Curator, says  “It is these individuals that we want to report sightings of amphibians and reptiles, so scientists and field researchers have a better idea of where certain species can be found. Many of our native amphibian and reptile populations are declining and we are not sure why."

The work of volunteers "might be able to help answer this question and more," Bailiff says.

If you interested in participating, more information is at www.binderparkzoo.org. More information about the Herp survey is at the Michigan Herp Atlas Project website at www.MIHerpAtlas.org.

Source: Binder Park release