Recording your Data

Once you have finished trapping, it’s time to record your catch and see how well you did! Collect up your tadpoles as best you can and prepare to count them.

The most effective way to achieve this is to count out 100 tadpoles and weigh them for the value of A. Then place your entire catch into a sealed bag and weigh the entire catch for the value of B. Then divide B by A and multiply by 100 to determine how many tadpoles you have, C.

100 tadpoles = A

Entire catch = B

B ÷ A, x 100 = C

Alternatively, you can transfer your tadpoles to a zip-lock bag and freeze them horizontally. Once frozen, remove the bag and count all the tadpoles in a small section, as below. Then multiply the amount by the amount of times your section fits in that bag, making allowances for density.

This method will give you a rough idea of how many tadpoles you have caught that is suitable for data purposes.

This won’t be feasible all the time. Particularly if you have a tadpole soup situation…

Once you have counted your catch, please upload it to our online database using our simple online data entry.

Collecting data is vital for the continued success of the Watergum Cane Toads program. Data collection allows us to monitor how successful the program is. We are making new discoveries all the time through member feedback, such as the fact that different family groups of tadpoles don’t mix. This is valuable behavioural data that allows us to improve the quality of information available to members. It also enables us to spot population trends, identify toad hot-spots and keep track of geographical breeding seasons.

Discussion point: Have you noticed any interesting or unusual toad behaviour. Let us know what you saw and where you saw it!