Why are amphibians disappearing? 

Sadly, amphibians are disappearing faster than any other group of animals. Scientists estimate that about 40% of amphibian species are at risk of extinction. Here are the main reasons:

🌍 Habitat Loss

• Forests, wetlands, and ponds where amphibians live are being destroyed or changed for farming, roads, or buildings.
  
  

• When their homes disappear, amphibians have nowhere to lay eggs, find food, or hide from predators.
  
  

💧 Pollution

• Chemicals like pesticides, fertilizers, and factory waste seep into water and soil.
  
  

• Because amphibians have thin, permeable skin, these pollutants can poison them or cause birth defects.
  
  

🦠 Disease

• A deadly fungus called chytrid fungus (Bd) spreads across the world, attacking amphibian skin.
  
  

• It has caused massive die-offs in frogs, toads, and salamanders.
  
  

🌡️ Climate Change

• Shifts in temperature and rainfall can dry up breeding ponds or make habitats unsuitable.
  
  

• Amphibians that depend on specific conditions (like cool, wet forests) are especially vulnerable.
  
  

🐍 Invasive Species & Overcollection

• Non-native animals (like fish or bullfrogs introduced to new areas) eat amphibian eggs and tadpoles.
  
  

• In some places, amphibians are overcollected for the pet trade, food, or traditional medicine.
  
  

⚠️ Why This Matters

When amphibians disappear, ecosystems lose important insect-eaters, food sources for other animals, and natural indicators of environmental health. Their decline is a warning sign that our planet is in trouble too.