With over 6,000 described frog species found on every continent except Antarctica, it’s no surprise that these amphibians play a vital role in a variety of ecosystems.
They vary greatly; some species weigh a mere 2 ounces and others a whopping 7 pounds; colors range from muddy brown to striking blue and lifespans range between just one year and up to 30 years.
According to the American Museum of Natural History, frogs have likely roamed the Earth for over 200 million years, maintaining their position in the food chain since the time of dinosaurs. Despite this rich history, conservationists across the planet are sounding the alarm for startling declines in frog populations — an issue Friends of Deckers Creek (FODC) aims to highlight with its Save The Frogs Day event this Saturday.
A 2023 study led by two Harvard fellows reveals that two out of every five amphibians are now threatened with extinction, making them the most threatened vertebrate class on the planet. The International Union of Conservation of Nature (IUCN) categorizes approximately 1,700 frog species as endangered or critically endangered. Despite the symbolism of rebirth often associated with their unique lifecycle, many frog species are steadily inching towards extinction.
There are beacons of hope, however. For nearly 20 years, the international organization Save The Frogs has dedicated itself to conservation and outreach efforts. Its annual Save The Frogs Day draws the participation of around 60 countries worldwide, and for the second year running, FODC will be bringing this initiative to Morgantown for a day of education and frog appreciation.
Stop by FODC’s Outdoor Learning Park anytime from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday to delve into the world of these lovable amphibians. Meet live frogs, play frog-themed games and create frog-themed crafts. This event is free, open to all ages and does not require pre-registration.
Both exotic pet frogs and native West Virginian frogs will be present, offering an opportunity to see and interact with these amphibians up close. Test your frog species identification skills or toss insects into a frog’s mouth during a frog-themed game of cornhole. Get creative with frog-themed crafts or have your face painted. But above all, take the opportunity to learn about these cold-blooded critters that so often serenade you on spring evenings or splash in the shallows as you cast your fishing line.
“We hope that we can promote conservation and a greater awareness of amphibian extinction — it’s definitely a huge concern,” said Noah Carte, AmeriCorps VISTA service member for FODC.
The vulnerability of frogs not only raises concerns for their stability but also the stability of their environment. Frogs are considered bioindicators, organisms sensitive to environmental changes that reflect the health of their surroundings through their biological responses. West Virginia is home to 15 species of frogs and toads, from the nostalgic spring peepers to the iconic American toad. Across the state, these amphibians face threats like habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, invasive species and chytridiomycosis, a serious fungal disease.
Beyond supporting organizations like FODC and Save The Frogs, Carte said individuals can contribute to amphibian conservation by advocating for the protection of West Virginia’s water bodies, preventing the introduction of harmful chemicals into waterways, practicing proper sanitation of recreational gear, and conserving water and energy.
Saturday’s event will offer opportunities to discuss all of this and more, encouraging attendees to celebrate the magnificence of these small but mighty creatures not just on Save The Frogs Day, but every day.
“We hope that people leave here feeling more informed and excited to learn more about frogs and their importance, and maybe get involved in some efforts to help with conservation,” said Carte.
For more information, visit DeckersCreek.org or SaveTheFrogs.com.
