Many spring evenings at Trent University are filled with the enchanting symphony of mating calls from the resident frogs. Recognizing the importance of understanding these amphibians' habitats and movements on campus, Trent University staff and graduate students—are conducting comprehensive frog surveys. The surveys aim to identify and monitor the diverse amphibian populations within the University Green Network (UGN), a network of natural areas and green spaces on the Symon’s campus that will be cared for and enhanced, and that helps deliver on Trent’s commitment to maintain 60% of the campus as Nature Areas and green space. The frog surveys are possible in part because of a $350,000 grant from TD Bank Group to implement environmental enhancement projects in the UGN.

Following the marsh monitoring protocols of Birds Canada, Ali Giroux, Trent’s land stewardship coordinator, spearheaded the amphibian breeding surveys during the spring mating season. Assisting her in this endeavor was Gillian Johnson, an M.BEMA student completing her summer placement as a land stewardship assistant. 

Applying skills learned at Trent to better the Symons Campus

Gillian expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "It has been an amazing experence putting my skills into action as well as countinuing to learn and develop my identification and survey skills. Being able to put my skills to use on a campus where I have learned them feels like such rewarding work. It is also amazing to see that surveys we are doing now will add to plans that will help create lasting change to the UGN.”  

While doing their fieldwork, Ali and Gillian had the privilege of experiencing the sights and sounds of various frog species in the Trent Lands area. The high-pitched calls of Spring Peepers and the distinct trills of Western Chorus Frogs echoed through the wetland, while Gray Treefrogs skillfully camouflaged themselves and American Toads hopped along the forest floor. They also spotted Northern Leopard Frogs and a Green frog (pictured), who seemed to be sporting a smile. The presence and diversity of these frog species demonstrate the ecological richness of the Trent Lands.  

"These surveys will help us better understand the diversity of amphibians within the UGN and their breeding locations. Over time, this baseline data will enable us to monitor any changes to the habitat and populations as the campus evolves," explained Ali. "Baseline and regular monitoring are crucial for our broader understanding of how human activities can impact ecosystems and will help to inform both campus planning and future conservation efforts." 

Ali and Gillian's work is also playing a vital role in shaping the plan for the UGN, which aims to connect and care for the Nature Areas, corridors, and green spaces on the Symons campus.  

As Trent University continues its commitment to the care of our natural environment, learning about the ecosystems across the campus is a priority. Through ongoing surveys and research, Trent University is demonstrating its dedication to maintaining a delicate balance between campus infrastructure and nature, ensuring that future generations can also cherish the symphony of frogs in the Trent Lands.