During the survey season, we are asking you to keep a close eye out for any amphibians and reptiles that appear to be behaving in an abnormal manner, or animals with unusual lumps or bumps or skin lesions. There are a number of possible causes for this in amphibians, including infection with Amphibiocystidium Parasitic Disease, and we are keen to find out more about the distribution of this parasitic organism in wild populations in the UK. We are also continuing to monitor other infectious agents such as the causal agent of Chytrid - Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, or the new form B. salamandrivorans, which has been found elsewhere in Northern Europe (for more information download: Amphibian disease alert - B. salamandrivorans).

If you do see an animal that looks abnormal, please take photos of the symptoms and report it, together with details of where you found it, to The Garden Wildlife Health Project

If the symptoms look unusual, and the animal is dead, then the veterinarians at the Institute of Zoology may ask you to send it to their laboratory for post mortem. If this happens, they will send you additional instructions for collection, storage and posting protocols. At the present time the costs of analysis and postage are covered by the funded project, and there will be no cost for this service.