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How
to package and freeze an amphibian specimen
To
download a copy of these guidelines
(PDF).
It
is important that these simple instructions are followed in every case to
prevent specimens decaying and to avoid any public health risk hazards.
If
you find one or more dead frogs, call Froglife to report the circumstances
before packaging them for storage. In this way, Froglife can determine
whether the specimens are suitable for freeze-storage and advise on the
following packing instructions to be followed.
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Only
fresh dead carcasses are suitable for freezing for subsequent laboratory
testing. Carcasses may deteriorate rapidly after death, especially in
warm weather, so it is important to make arrangements for storage as
soon as possible after finding a specimen. If
the frog shows signs of decomposition then it will be unsuitable for
this research. Dried up specimens will also be unsuitable for
analysis.
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This
bag must then be wrapped in an absorbent material such as cotton wool or
kitchen roll paper. Sufficient absorbent material must be used to absorb
all possible leakage in the event of damage. This must then be placed
within another plastic bag (e.g. freezer zip-loc bag), and sealed to
produce a leak-proof package.
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The
package should preferably be placed in a rigid, crush proof container
(ideally a tupperware box with a clip down lid, but an old margarine tub
or cardboard box should do just as well). Ensure the lid is firmly
fixed, using self adhesive tape if necessary. This does not have to be
done separately for each frog as long as each specimen is properly
bagged.
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This
container (or the leak-proof package alone if a container is not
available) should then be placed in a freezer out of contact with food
items, for subsequent collection. The frozen carcasses will remain
suitable for laboratory examination for many weeks but will be collected
as soon as possible.
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When
the frog was found (date and time)
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Where
it was found.
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When
it was frozen (date and time)
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If
the frog was observed before death – their behaviour, appearance
etc.
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Any
other information that you consider relevant.
The
frozen specimens and the note recording the details will be collected at a
date and time convenient to you.
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