Project Results

Thanks so much to everyone who supported this project! I'm happy to say that our results have been published (see link for the full scoop)! Using our experimental approach, we found that when we played traffic noise in a roadless area, we observed fewer frogs and toads. However, when we played a different noise- traffic noise that had the frequencies that interfere with frog and toad communication digitally removed- we didn't observe a significant reduction in numbers. We also found that the traffic noise, but not the digitally altered noise, caused Oak Toads to change how they vocalized. 

This suggests that frogs and toads might avoid traffic noise in order to have a better chance of communicating clearly. Neat, right? We need to consider how building new roads might impact the conversations that these imperiled amphibians are having- and how that might impact their long-term survival. After all, if no one can hear your love call- no baby toads for you!

About This Project

Frogs are common visitors to our backyards, and these fascinating creatures are also great indicators of our environment's health. However, they face a number of threats, leaving many species endangered.

My project investigates how traffic noise, a widespread source of disturbance, may be affecting frog movement, reproduction, and stress. To do this, I need to obtain solar panels to play traffic noise in a remote area.

Any donations past $225 will be used to keep this experiment going and growing!

Ask the Scientists

What is the context of this research?

Roads are one of the most widespread features of human activity, and they aren't quiet about it: traffic noise can be heard up to 1000 meters from the road. Studies have shown that traffic noise causes some bird species to avoid roadside habitat, and that it may even cause some birds and frogs to change the way they communicate. However, we don't yet know if these effects have a negative impact on population survival. That's what my research will help uncover.

To investigate the effect of traffic noise alone, without confounding factors, I am broadcasting traffic noise in Tosohatchee Wildlife Management Area, which has no paved roads. But, I need solar panels to keep my noise broadcast going- otherwise, I have to trek out to recharge my batteries every other day.

What is the significance of this project?

Cars are well-known frog killers, squashing thousands each year as frogs migrate to their breeding ponds. Because of this, some areas have started installing "frog crossing structures" to help them cross roads safely. However, these structures do not eliminate traffic noise, so it's critical that we understand how noise affects frogs and other animals. This is especially important considering that worldwide, 25 million kilometers of new roads are planned to be built by 2050!

What are the goals of the project?

I have already set up experimental ponds at Tosohatchee to attract breeding frogs, and I have recorded the traffic noise to play there. I'm in the process of measuring frog abundance, reproductive success, and stress levels under different traffic noise treatments. However, I just need solar panels to keep the noise tracks going for longer! Ultimately, I will publish the results so that they can be implemented in frog conservation and road planning.