A field evaluation of a trap for invasive American bullfrogs.

Abstract

Native to the eastern United States, American bullfrogs (Rana catesbeiana [Lithobates catesbeianus]) have been introduced in many countries throughout the world. There have been relatively few effective and efficient control methods developed to manage bullfrogs. Particularly in the Hawaiian Islands, Pacific coast of North America, and Japan, finding effective methods for controlling invasive bullfrogs is needed with special emphasis on low impacts for sensitive native species. We conducted a field study to examine the efficacy of a newly designed live trap for capturing invasive bullfrogs. We found that our trap was successful at capturing bullfrogs because we captured up to seven in a single trap overnight. Fishing lures, live crickets, and lights were used as attractants and all capture bullfrogs, however more research is needed for finding effective attractants. We captured one known non-target frog that was released. Our findings suggest that the multiple capture traps could effectively be used as part of an integrated pest management strategy for controlling invasive bullfrog populations.