The Disappearing Frog – Is it a Warning Sign for Us All?

The Save the Frogs Foundation in America tells us that nearly one-third of the world’s more than 6,000 species of frogs are close to extinction.

(Source: Save the Frogs Foundation)

Frogs as we know them are disappearing. The Save the Frogs Foundation in America tells us that nearly one-third of the world’s more than 6,000 species of frogs are close to extinction. This is bad because frogs are an integral part of the food web. The young tadpoles keep waterways clean, frogs are an important source of food for larger predators and they even eat lots of insects that could potentially be carrying human-killing diseases, such as malaria.

But what are the real threats for frog survival? Destruction of their habitats is a major problem, all that rainforest being ripped out means their homes are gone and it can be extremely stressful for frogs to relocate to find a new home. Increases in the sunlight that is getting through to them is a major problem, seems strange but more ultra-violet in the atmosphere is not good for these shade-tolerant species. Pesticides in the water, pollution from industry, new predators, diseases… the list goes on.

Frogs skin easily absorbs toxins and according to the Save the Frogs Foundation, “These traits make frogs especially susceptible to environmental disturbances, and thus frogs are considered accurate indicators of environmental stress”.

(Source: Save the Frogs Foundation)

Please learn more about global warming, and the decline of the forests. Teach your children and others about the importance of reducing waste, pollution and greenhouse gases.

Thank you for taking the time to read about Frogs.

Lucy Brake: Writer & Editor

Sharon Haddox: Writer, Editor & Designer
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