Like many endangered amphibians, the natterjack toad (Epidalea calamita) is particularly difficult to detect in terrestrial environments. Koch et al. (2025) compared the efficacy of using artificial cover boards (which attract toads by creating an ideal environment for them) to using wildlife detection dogs to locate this elusive species. The capture success for both detection methods under varying environmental and training conditions was evaluated to determine what conditions and protocols may be most efficient.
Two Australian cattle dogs, a border collie, and a German Shepherd–Harz fox mix, all with different experiences and personalities, were trained to sniff out the toads. Learning curves and detection success varied by individual (with variables like wind, insects, and terrain all playing a role), but overall the dogs ended up detecting toads at consistently higher rates than those achieved with the artificial cover boards, especially for juveniles in dense vegetation.
For the dogs, the most important factor was their own behaviour, but even the least experienced dog showed promise after a steep learning curve. The results emphasize the importance of adaptive training strategies tailored to individual dogs and environmental conditions. It concludes that while both methods are valid, wildlife detection dogs are particularly effective in complex terrains, for juveniles, and for covering larger areas. However, it was concluded that the two methods really complement each other, as each method detected individuals the other missed. This study offers conservationists a potential new tool for surveying elusive amphibians – with detection dogs on the job.
Read the full paper here: https://besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/2688-8319.70062