Frogs in a Fix: Amphibian Decline

Frogs Still in a Fix

A new global assessment of the status of amphibians, including frogs, toads, and salamanders, across the globe has recently been released. The three-year study, including surveys from over 60 countries, assessed the 5,743 known amphibian species and found that almost one-third (32%) of all amphibian species are facing extinction. As many as 168 species may already be extinct, with an estimated 122 extinct just since 1980. An additional 1,900 could soon face the same fate.

The findings are grim for Latin American and Caribbean countries where the largest numbers of threatened species were found (e.g. Colombia: 208 species) and the largest percent in decline were determined (e.g. Haiti: 92 percent of species). In the United States, of the 268 species that were identified, 51 are threatened - almost 20 percent. Only 21 of those species currently receive protection by the federal government.

This is the first time such a far-reaching evaluation has been conducted and the results are telling. Amphibians are extremely sensitive to environmental changes, and the alarming disappearance of frogs, toads, salamanders and other amphibians around the world is an early sign that other wildlife - and perhaps people - could be at risk, too. After all, the devastating effects of wetland and forest destruction, climate change and pollution from pesticides are not limited to frogs.

Fortunately, each of us can help. Conserve water and energy. Drive fuel-efficient vehicles. Restore habitat and monitor wildlife through projects like the the Association of Zoos and Aquarium's FrogWatch USA™ program. Above all, realize that amphibian decline is just one symptom of a much larger problem - one whose effects can be lessened if enough people do their part.

To learn more about the study's findings, visit the Global Amphibian Assessment.

Learn More About the Status of Amphibians:

Changing Climate Equals Decline
Frogs Still in a Fix