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DNR Begins Annual Frog Calling Survey As Sounds Of Spring Return

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- It won't be long before the familiar sounds of spring return around Minnesota's lakes and rivers, including croaks from the state's 14 species of frogs and toads.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is looking for volunteers to help track changes in their population. They say frogs and toads are the best indicators of wetland health.

Volunteers will get a kit that helps them identify the sounds of different species, then they'll conduct nighttime listening surveys around the state.

DNR official Heidi Cyr says the survey provides important data on frog population and local ecosystems.

"We can determine where the frogs are located throughout the state, and if we start noticing species of frogs are no longer heard, then there may be an issue going on," she said.

If you'd like to take part in the survey, check out the DNR's website.

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