Amphibians Struggle with Habitat Loss and Climate Change: How Some Humans are Fighting Back

HONEOYE, N.Y. (AP) — On a damp evening in March, John Bateman dons his boots and headlamp and makes his way to a marsh intersected by a busy highway. As he treads along, he keeps an eye out for spring peepers, toads, salamanders, and newts slowly trekking to new breeding grounds, occasionally stooping to ensure their safe passage across the road.

This seemingly small gesture is crucial for these amphibians, which require various environments throughout their life cycle—ranging from aquatic wetlands to more arid upland areas. Unfortunately, these creatures often need to cross roads that divide these essential habitats, risking fatal encounters with vehicles.

Amphibian populations are already under pressure due to habitat loss caused by urban development. This is particularly true for vernal pools—temporary pools formed in woodland areas from melting snow and rainwater. These pools, which can retain water until as late as July, are vital for the breeding of many amphibian species such as salamanders and frogs. While larger wetlands may be protected under federal law, these smaller, ephemeral vernal pools often are not.

“Urban expansion and the demand for more housing as people move from cities to suburbs mean that many wooded areas—and the vernal pools within them—are being destroyed,” explains Bateman, who teaches environmental conservation and horticulture at Finger Lakes Community College. “These areas are often filled in to make way for new homes, condos, and neighborhoods.”

___

EDITOR’S NOTE: This narrative is a collaborative effort between Rochester Institute of Technology and The Associated Press.

___

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the decline of amphibian populations is a concern worldwide, with U.S. populations decreasing by nearly 4% annually since the 1960s. Bateman notes that habitat destruction is not the sole threat these animals face. Climate change is also altering their living conditions. Particularly in the Appalachian region, known for its diverse salamander species, rising temperatures are pushing these creatures further north.

Bateman is particularly worried about this northward migration. “Eventually, they reach a point where they can’t go any further north,” he says.

Additionally, a warmer climate forces cold-blooded amphibians to extend their foraging periods to meet their metabolic needs, according to Karen Lips, a biology professor at the University of Maryland.

Bateman is not alone in his efforts to conserve amphibian populations. Margot Fass, who runs A Frog House in Pittsford, New York, is another advocate. In April, she organized a fundraiser with 70 volunteers to construct three vernal pools to coincide with Save the Frogs Day. These new pools not only provide a habitat for frogs but also serve as water sources for birds and other wildlife.

Fass passionately discusses the benefits of maintaining gardens without chemicals, stressing the lethal impact of pesticides on frogs. “A single spray can kill a frog within an hour. It’s absolutely dreadful,” she laments.

Both Bateman and Fass believe strongly in community education about amphibian conservation. They frequently speak at schools, libraries, and community groups to raise awareness.

“It’s surprising how many people are unaware of the endangered status of many frog species, or that a third of all species have become extinct,” says Fass.

The Genesee Land Trust also plays a significant role in local conservation efforts. Located near Lake Ontario in Pultneyville, New York, the trust acquired the 77-acre Cornwall Preserve in 2016, marking its first ownership transfer from farmers in two centuries. The trust has focused on preserving this historic farmland and has restored numerous wetlands and vernal pools on the property.

“Right after we started restoring the wetlands, they immediately began supporting a variety of bird species,” reports Elliotte Bowerman, the trust’s director of communications.

For Bateman, catching amphibians may bring back childhood memories, but the fascination has never faded. He is adamant about the importance of preserving these natural habitats—not only for the amphibians and the environment but also to ensure future generations can experience the same joy and connection with nature that he did as a child.

“I truly believe that future generations will miss out if they don’t have the opportunity to experience what I did growing up, to connect with nature in such a direct and intimate way,” he reflects.

___