Teachers: download Amphibian Alert!
a curriculum for teaching children about amphibians and their global population declines.
The Association of Zoos and Aquariums has declared 2008 the Year of the Frog to mark a major conservation effort to address the amphibian extinction crisis.
The National Zoo will be doing its part too with exhibits, programs, and events to support this effort throughout the year. Visit our website regularly to learn about how the Zoo is helping to ensure the future of the world’s amphibians and what you can do to help.
ZooFari Guests
Thanks for attending ZooFari: Frogs & Friends and supporting the Zoo. We hope you had a wonderful time.
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| The golden mantella is critically endangered due to destruction of its forest and wetland habitat in Madagascar. |
About the Crisis
Amphibians—frogs, toads, salamanders, and newts—are declining rapidly around the world. More than one-third of all amphibian species are threatened with extinction, with habitat loss and disease being two of the main culprits. Climate change and pollution are also causing amphibian decline.
Amphibians are widely thought to be “canaries in the global coalmine.” They live both on land and in water, and absorb oxygen and water through their porous skins, so they may be among the first to suffer from air and water pollution. The decline of this order of animals is worrisome for its own sake. But as sentinels for the rest of us, the amphibian crisis is a grave cause for concern.
Zoos and aquariums can play a big roll in helping to reverse this trend by breeding and studying amphibians.
On Our Website
Spotlight on Zoo Science: Breaking the Fall of Frogs
National Zoo scientists help to create a safety net for frogs, which are declining around the world at alarming rates.
Read the article.
Spotlight on Zoo Science: Solving the Mystery of Frog Fatalities
National Zoo scientists track down the cause of—and a cure for—a new, fatal amphibian disease. Read the article.
Operation Shenandoah Salamander
National Zoo scientists combat salamander extinction in Appalachia. Read the article.
ZooGoer: Jumping into Trouble
Around the world, many frog populations have vanished or now teeter on a slippery slope. Scientists now offer convincing reasons for why some frogs are declining or disappearing, including threats neither human nor frogs can see. Read the article.
ZooGoer: Chasing Frogs and Phantoms: The Mystery of Amphibian Declines
From the rainforests of Costa Rica to backyard ponds in Minnesota, frogs and other amphibian species are in trouble—conclusive proof that it's not always easy being green. Read the article.
ZooGoer: Frogs: The Rainbow Connection
Sometimes slimy, sometimes flashy, frogs and toads hop the gambit of appearances and lifestyles. One amphibian-lover takes a long look at the world of frogs and toads, and concludes that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Read the article.
Learn More
Amphibian Ark
Global Amphibian Assessment
Amphibian News From Zoos and Aquariums
Amphibian Research and Monitoring Initiative
FrogWeb
North American Amphibian Monitoring Program
