Endangered Species of the Week–Frogs Leap Back into the Spotlight

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Back in February, we talked about frogs for the Leap Day post.  As stated in that post, “One-third of all frog species are in danger of extinction due to a fungus commonly called the chytrid fungus (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis).  Habitat loss is an even bigger problem for frogs and other amphibians.  Often, frogs are viewed as the “canary in a coalmine” when it comes to the health of various ecosystems.  When we start losing frogs, scientists recommend that we really start paying attention.”  One of the most endangered frogs is the Panamanian Golden Frog (Atelopus zeteki) (photo credit Smithsonian CBC), which has been extinct in the wild since 2007.  Now there’s a little ray of hope shining from the Smithsonian’s Amphibian Conservation Center at the National Zoo.   As the zoo reported last week, scientists may have developed a probiotic that could protect them from the chytrid fungus.  To learn more about this new, positive development in amphibian conservation, check out this report from the Today Show.

What can you do to help in frog conservation?  Consider these ideas:

• Locally, be sure to protect frog habitat; the areas where frogs live are often sensitive areas that affect the quality of water.  Is there a new road or housing project being put into your neighborhood?  Have the builders checked for the presence of frogs and other amphibians.
• Join Frogwatch USA and help with citizen science to keep track of local frogs. 
• Got a lawn?  Check out the FWS Homeowner’s Guide to Protecting Frogs – it’s a great guide for reducing use of pesticides and herbicides that can harm frogs. 
• Globally, consider supporting organizations involved in frog protection – Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project (for frogs in Panama), Amphibian Ark, or you can even adopt a frog at the World Wildlife Fund.