How's the health of our ecosystem? Ask a frog

While I would say most people consider them slimy, gross, disgusting creatures, I believe frogs are actually adorable, fascinating, important creatures. I know what you are thinking but let me explain why my perception has changed from being fairly indifferent to these leaping amphibians to wanting to memorize their calls, go out at night to find them, and learn all I can about frogs.

Frogs are critically important to Southwest Florida ecosystems. They are what we call indicator species, meaning frogs give clues about the health of an ecosystem. Frogs and other amphibians are very sensitive to environmental changes and are usually the first to disappear if an ecosystem is being threatened, either naturally or due to development. If the frogs start leaving, you know something is wrong.

Luckily, most populations of frogs in our area are doing relatively okay, and in your backyard, you may hear a whole chorus of singing as the sun begins to set. Frogs offer a unique way to interact with nature – you can completely close your eyes and just listen and identify many species that are within a few yards of where you are standing. It can be very meditative and peaceful; and perhaps what you once thought was a racket that kept you up at night could turn into a thriving, fascinating group of animals coaxing you to sleep.

Not only is it interesting to learn about the different frog calls in your area, but it can also be really fun! With practice, you can begin to discern what sounds belong to which species and realize that your backyard hosts an amazing amount of life. Also, some of their calls are just frankly ridiculous in the best way.

Local scientists are taking advantage of the easy opportunity to assess the health of surrounding ecosystems by conducting surveys of the frog calls, joining a national citizen science program called FrogWatch USA. Dr. Edwin Everham, a professor in the department of ecology and environmental studies at Florida Gulf Coast University, has been conducting frog watch surveys for over two decades. At over a dozen sites in the Estero area, he takes FGCU students and other volunteers out to listen and record what they hear and see once a month during the rainy season.

Jeannine and Ryan Young, graduates of FGCU and local business owners of Naples Outfitters and Rising Tide Explorers, were inspired by Everham’s project and decided to start a frog watch of their own. This summer, once a month in July, August, and soon in September, they have invited community members out to this free event to listen at three locations for frogs, documenting important scientific data while also having lots of fun.

I have participated and helped lead these frog watches, and I am so excited to end the season with one more amazing night on Friday, September 13. We have heard and seen some awesome frogs and other critters, including green tree frogs, Cuban tree frogs, southern toads, cane toads, squirrel tree frogs, greenhouse frogs, cricket frogs, a glass lizard and more. You can register for this free event at this link or follow @risingtidefl on Instagram and find the frog watch link on their page.

Become a citizen scientist and learn more about how to identify frog calls, which species are beneficial, which are invasive or toxic, and how you can help frogs. Join me and other local biologists this Friday at the last public frog watch of the year! Perhaps you may change your mind about these wonderfully slimy, lovable creatures.

Celina Ceballos is a graduate student in the Master of Science in Environmental Science at Florida Gulf Coast University, studying red tide's impact on sea turtles and manatee physiology. She graduated from Eckerd College with a marine science degree, minoring in journalism, and has many accolades including a national Fulbright Scholarship and a Barry Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education. With extensive research experience in several of Florida's habitats, an educational background as a camp counselor and nature guide, and involvement in local scientific organizations, Ceballos is eager to share her knowledge and wisdom about various local scientific topics.

This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: How's the health of our ecosystem? Ask a frog