Importance of frogs

Frogs are not just long-limbed long-leapers. These water-loving amphibians are extremely important in our ecosystems by providing food to a wide array of other animals and consuming vast quantities of insects. They are also important bio-indicators due to their sensitive skins and bi-phasic lifestyles. In other words, if they are around, it means our environment is healthy.

Unfortunately, habitat destruction, increasing levels of pollution in freshwater systems, disease and changes in climate, are starting to have noticeable effects on amphibian communities globally. Despite their crucial role, amphibians are currently experiencing massive population declines. 32% of all species are Red Listed as threatened - compared with 12% of birds and 23% of mammals

In an effort to bring awareness to these very important and beautiful creatures we will be holding the second LEAP DAY FOR FROGS on 28th February 2014. Now you too, can take a leap into action at the end of February to pledge your support for learning more, and conserving our frogs and their habitats. Frogs are the most threatened group of species on Earth. Become part of the movement - link to events page

South Africa is blessed with a rich diversity of frogs represented by 13 of the 32 families of frogs worldwide. We have approximately 160 species that inhabit a wide range of habitats, from grassland to forest and even desert areas. Some are fully aquatic, like the Platannas, while others hardly use water at all, like the Desert Rain Frog. This cute ball of frog lives in the dunes and relies on sea mist for its moisture.

As is the situation globally, 30% of our local species are threatened as a result of habitat destruction.

In South Africa, 29% of our frog species are listed as Critically Endangered, Endangered or Vulnerable. The fact that one third of a group of animals could potentially disappear should be an important warning to humans that our global environment is in jeopardy and that urgent conservation action is crucial.

However not many people know this. In a recent survey (link) conducted by the EWT Threatened Amphibian Programme, 67% of respondents answered No to the question “Do you know that frogs are the most threatened animals on Earth?”.

These creatures of popular folklore are teetering on the brink of extinction and unless we act NOW to save them, South Africa too will start losing species.

Thus, part of the conservation challenge is about changing the lack of awareness and perceptions and superstitions associated with these furless creatures.

Link from Fun Froggy Facts .......read more