Frogs and Amphibians

"Scientists say that amphibians represent the global equivalent of the “canary in the coal mine.” “Amphibians' thin skins help them drink and breathe but also make them susceptible to environmental contaminants particularly agricultural, industrial, and pharmaceutical chemicals.” Over 32 % of all known amphibian species are threatened with extinction. The disease Chytridiomycosis — which scientists think originated with the African Clawed toad a species exported for commercial and scientific use — has now spread to all continents inhabited by amphibians. In the cool and moist habitats where the fungus thrives it causes an annual mortality of 50–80% with no known cure."

- Amphibian Ark

WHAT YOU CAN DO

• Avoid using pesticides, herbicides, and chemical fertilizers that wash into streams and wetlands and poison amphibians’ permeable skin.

• Keep local waterways clean by properly disposing of medicines, paints, and household chemicals rather than pouring them down drains.

• Support conservation efforts that protect wetlands and fund research on chytrid fungus and other amphibian diseases.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND HOW TO HELP

Visit:

• Amphibian Survival Alliance (ASA)

• Amphibian Ark

• Association of Zoos & Aquariums - FrogWatch USA