Frogs are going extinct. So are toads, salamanders, newts and caecilians.
When the Gecko, who is enamored with all amphibians, learned that the AZA highlighted 2008 as the Year of the Frog to help bring attention to the amphibian extinction crisis, he was quoted as saying, "Cheers to the AZA and everyone who supports wildlife conservation. I'm more than happy to do whatever I can to save my amphibian mates."
Here are the top 8 in '08 ways to help frogs...
- Look, listen, and learn: educate yourself and your family about amphibians.
With more than 6,000 frogs, toads, newts, salamanders, and caecilians worldwide, there's a lot to learn. Pick up a book, hop around the Internet, or watch your favorite animal television show to educate yourself and your family about amphibians.
- Visit an Association of Zoos and Aquariums accredited institution near you and experience your very own amphibian adventure!
AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums are helping to save frogs and other amphibians through breeding programs and by providing support for field conservation. They are also some of the best places to see and learn about amphibians from around the world. Look for the AZA logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting an institution dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things.
- Create amphibian friendly environments by providing clean water, hiding places, and insects to eat.
Prime amphibian real estate includes leaf litter, rocks, logs, and a source of water - backyard ponds make a great family project!
- Don't pollute.
Do your part to keep garbage, chemicals, and non-native plants and animals out of the natural environment. Amphibians absorb chemicals through their skin easily. They also fall prey to non-native species.
- Be a responsible pet owner.
Discourage your canine and feline family members from pestering wildlife, especially amphibians and birds. Curious cats and digging dogs cause a lot of stress for frightened amphibians. If you or your pet encounters an amphibian, study, look, listen, and then leave it where it is.
- Conserve water at home, school, and work.
Save water by using collected rainwater for watering gardens and potted plants. The water you save now remains a clean habitat for wild amphibians without being chemically treated.
- Reduce the use of fossil fuels, such as oil, coal and natural gas.
Climate change is impacting amphibian populations worldwide. By using less energy or choosing renewable sources of energy, you can help slow the rate of climate change. Drive less, buy fuel-efficient cars, and use compact fluorescent light bulbs!
- Be an amphibian champion.
Donate to wildlife conservation programs, such as the AZA Amphibian Fund. Participate in citizen-science monitoring programs with your family. Be aware of legislation affecting wildlife and their habitat, global warming, and land use and development issues.
To learn more and to pledge to be a Friend to Frogs, visit www.aza.org/yearofthefrog
