Ask the expert: How can I prevent dead frogs?

Q: I regularly find dead frogs floating on the pool surface or in the skimmer box. How can I prevent this?

A: They are likely being drawn by a smorgasbord of insects living in, on and around your pool. Frogs climb in to feast and become trapped, as there is no easy escape route.The chlorine or saltwater then permeates their skin and poisons them... an unwelcome result all round.

 There are a few things you can do to stop animals entering the water in the first place, which tend to be a little hit and miss, depending on the time you want to spend dealing with this issue. For our money, it might be better to look at options that make it easier for unwanted guests to exit.

 The most obvious fix is to cover the pool at night, ensuring frogs, toads and other small animals can’t get trapped, but it’s a time-consuming option. Pool lighting can draw bugs and the animals that feed on them, but while turning lighting off at night is simple enough, it doesn’t really solve the underlying problem. Believe or not, these little amphibians and their permeable skin really, really love oxygen-rich cold water, so heating the pool is one of the best deterrents.

 If none of these options appeal, there are specialist lifesaving devices available that attach to the pool side and offer a floating ramp to facilitate an easy exit for animals that find themselves in trouble. Google ‘pool frog ramp’ and you’ll find a multitude of reasonably priced options available in Australia.

For more expert advice, email your pool and outdoor living questions to hello@poolspalife.com.au.