Trial project launched to sterilise bullfrogs
Hasselt University and PXL University College are launching a trial project to sterilise the invasive North American bullfrogs
Detrimental to indigenous species
The North American bullfrog was first brought to Europe in the 1930s for the production of frog legs. Over the last 20 years, some have escaped and managed to reproduce on massive scale in the nutrient-rich ponds in the north of Antwerp province.
Because of its large size, the bullfrog has few natural enemies in the Flemish region. Its presence is detrimental to many indigenous species, like the green frogs. Many other European countries also face the same problem.
Until now, the bullfrog population was controlled by traps and by drainage of ponds. These methods, however, are not animal-friendly and are only efficient among isolated populations.
UHasselt and PXL University College will attempt to sterilise male bullfrogs before letting them back into the wild. The trial project will take place in the Grote Nete river valley, where the species is widely found. Antwerp province has invested €20,000 in the project.
Photo courtesy Wikimedia
