FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (April 16, 2008)
Top 8 in ‘08: Be a Friend to Frogs

Although zoos and researchers are doing all they can to prevent the demise of frogs, toads, salamanders, newts, and the intriguingly unusual caecilians, here are eight steps you can take to lend a hand.

  • 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.
     
  • Experience your very own amphibian adventure!

The Dallas Zoo and other 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.

 
  • Create amphibian friendly environments with 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 Dallas Zoo or 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: