Six Simple Things You Can Do to Save Frogs

Zoos and aquariums around the world have declared 2008 the Year of the Frog, drawing attention to the fact that amphibian populations are declining in many different countries. That’s the bad news. The good news is that you can do something that will help save frogs, toads, newts and salamanders in your state or region - maybe even in your own backyard.


Here are six simple things we encourage everyone to do.

1. Sign up to be A Friend of the Frogs.
   Join with others around the world who share your interest in amphibians and a concern for their future. Click here to become A Friend of the Frogs. Your name will be added to the growing list of people who want to be kept informed and who are willing to lend a hand to save amphibians from extinction.
    
2. Learn more about amphibians. 
   Knowledge is power. Check out our recommended list of books, articles and websites that contain essential information for the amphibian enthusiast.
    
3. Landscape for wildlife.  
   Create habitats for local amphibians. Build a frog pond or create a few toad abodes in your own backyard.  
    
4. Conserve water in your home. 
   Keep rivers, streams and ponds clean. By using fresh water wisely and reducing levels of pollution in amphibian habitats, we ensure them a much brighter future. Read more...
   
5. Volunteer to study native frogs, toads, salamanders and newts.
   A number of states and organizations have programs to survey and monitor amphibian populations. In most cases, these programs rely on volunteers like yourself. Begin volunteering today!
   
6. Make a donation to the Houston Zoo’s amphibian conservation efforts.
   The Houston Zoo is involved in two very worthwhile and ambitious amphibian conservation efforts, one aimed at restoring the critically endangered Houston toad to former habitats here in Texas and the other focused on rescuing dozens of threatened amphibian species in the montane tropical forests of Panama.  Check out the following web pages for more information about the projects and how to make a donation.   
   
   Houston Toad Recovery
   
   El Valle Amphibian Conservation Center