You Can Help Wildlife Endangered Species Day

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The Amphibian Foundation (AF) works every single day to move wildlife conservation efforts forward in our
community and across the globe. We do this work to make sure our future includes these important amphibian 
species. However, some days are more special than others.


This Friday, May 17, is Endangered Species Day. On this day, we proudly celebrate wildlife globally, along 
with the environments that these critters live within. Today, we encourage you to learn more about the 
amphibian extinction crisis, ways organizations are tackling the problem, and how you and others can assist 
in these efforts—even in your own backyard!

AF takes work into the field to survey species within their habitats and collect data on amphibians, like these newts!

For amphibians, the extinction problem is particularly challenging. Nearly half of the world’s amphibian species 
are extinct or on a steady decline in that direction. Yet amphibians are crucial to the Earth’s environment and 
its inhabitants. They can contribute to the health of other organisms and humans. For example, they limit the 
spread of disease by devouring mosquitoes, and have skin with compounds that can serve as treatments for 
pains and infections. They also balance the ecosystem’s food web, and even act as indicators for scientists to 
know when something is wrong with the environment.


The AF works to slow the progression of losing our important amphibians by working with partners on research 
and conservation, and raising awareness through education. While we deeply appreciate all amphibians, AF 
has focused a great deal of effort on three species that have been found to be on a steady decline: Frosted 
Flatwoods Salamander, Gopher Frog, and Striped Newt.

Ambystoma cingulatum, the Frosted Flatwoods Salamander, have suffered a population loss of 90% since 2000 and are at serious risk of extinction. We’re working to prevent their extinction so it no longer needs protection under the Endangered Species Act.
Lithobates capito, the Gopher Frog, are native to the coastal southeast. It is just one of the amphibious 
species we commonly observe and work to protect!

Notophthalmus perstriatus, the Striped Newt, is native to southeastern America and considered by 
many to be threatened as population numbers decline.
AF, in partnership with other organizations, is leading large-scale conservation efforts, and anyone can help, 
including you! If you’re interested in helping amphibians thrive in healthy habitats, then take a look at these 
suggestions for action:
  • Create an environmentally friendly yard! Read more on the Frog Blog for tips! 
    backyard.frogsneedourhelp.org
  • Volunteer with AF.
  • Donate to AF! Donations are tax-deductible and contribute directly to conservation efforts.
  • Monitor your local amphibian communities. Join Atlanta Amphibian Monitoring as a Citizen 
    Scientist. www.maamp.us
  • Help spread the word! Share a wildlife story or message with your friends and family using the 
    hashtags #ESDay, #AmphibiousAF and #AmphibianFoundation.

We look forward to working with you to save amphibians and their habitats. Visit amphibianfoundation.org 
to learn more.


Authors: Alana Levester (Communications Intern) and Lacey Avery (Communications Lead)

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