Citizen Science: Introducing Malformation Nation
Members of the public – and children in particular – play a key role in our scientific community. They are often the eyes and the ears for detecting and reporting emerging phenomena. This is especially true for deformed frogs. Many, if not most, observations of abnormal amphibians originate with kids, who pass along their observations to parents and, in turn, to scientists. Recognizing the importance of these reports, we have worked closely with FieldScope and the National Geographic Society to develop a citizen science platform through which people can easily report their observations and learn more about deformed frogs.
Because the online interface includes data from locations across the United States, including over 30 amphibian species, school groups and interested researchers can also use the database to map patterns of deformities by type, by time, or by frequency. To learn more about malformations in amphibians, how to identify species, or to report a malformation observation in your area, visit . Your reports are often very useful and greatly appreciated; however, for your safety and that of the animal we advise against getting too close to or handling any sick or diseased animals.
Additional information on amphibian deformities ()