Help the frogs!
Amphibians have been on Earth for 360 million years, since before even the dinosaurs existed. Amphibians include frogs, toads and salamanders. Amphibians are important for the ecosystem. They eat insects and are themselves food for many animals.
Amphibians can be seen as nature’s alarm bells. Because they are so sensitive, they are often the first animals to suffer from environmental damage. When frogs, toads and salamanders die, it is an important warning to other animals and humans.
Photo: Christian-Fischer-CC-BY-SA
Most amphibians in Skåne
Skåne has the most amphibian species in Sweden, as it is home to 12 of the country’s 13 species! All of them are protected. This means that it is forbidden to kill, harm or collect the animals or their eggs. Several frog species are extinct forever. Frogs are vulnerable. Their skin absorbs oxygen and water, but also environmental toxins.
The smooth newt, one of the amphibian species that live in Sweden.
Photo: gailhampshire-CC-BY
The European green toad is considered vulnerable based on the Swedish Red List, but many ongoing projects are trying to make things better for the species.
Photo: Frank-Vassen-CC-BY
The Agile frog, one of the species of frogs living in Sweden. The agile frog is considered near threatened accordning to the Swedish Red List.
Photo: D4r4mu5-CC-BY-SA
Why are the frogs disappearing
In Sweden, many lakes and wetlands have disappeared. Frogs are totally dependent on water to live, breed and breathe. Acidification, too many nutrients (eutrophication) and pollution harm them and the environment. Global threats include environmental pollution, fungal diseases and climate change.
Photo: LepoRello-CC-BY-SA
What can I do?
Help the frogs cross the road! Pick them up carefully. Give them a lift in a bucket down to the lake or pond. Put up a warning sign on a stretch of road where frogs often pass. Buy ecolabelled cleaning products.