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Amphibians face threats worldwide
Amphibians
are facing a global crisis. Currently there are over 6,000 amphibian
species in the world, and approximately half of those are in danger of
becoming extinct! The global amphibian decline is a result of habitat
loss, pollution, disease, global warming, among other factors. Without
action, the diversity of frogs, salamanders and toads will plummet.
Frogs and other amphibians are important to their ecosystems.
Amphibians are also referred to as environmental indicators because
they are one of the first groups of animals that are affected by
negative changes in their habitat.
The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) declared 2008 as Year of
the Frog to increase awareness of the problems frogs encounter. The
Virginia Living Museum participated in the Year of the Frog and
continues to promote awareness of the importance of and problems facing
amphibians.
Top 8 Things You Can Do to Help Amphibians
- Look, listen and learn: educate yourself and your family about amphibians.
- Visit the Virginia Living Museum, which exhibits 12 different species of amphibians, or visit an Association of Zoos and Aquariums accredited zoo or aquarium and experience your very own amphibian adventure! www.aza.org
- Create amphibian friendly environments by providing clean water, hiding places, and insects to eat.
- Don't pollute.
- Be a responsible pet owner.
- Conserve water at home, school and work.
- Reduce fossil fuel use.
- Be an amphibian champion.
The Eastern Tiger Salamander, shown here, is endangered in Virginia. It can be seen at the Virginia Living Museum.
For more information about efforts to keep threatened amphibian species afloat, visit Amphibian Ark.
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