Celebrating World Frog Day – 20 March 2023
World Frog Day is an annual celebration held on 20 March each year and is an excellent opportunity to learn more about frogs and their importance in our environment. This day was created in 2009 to raise awareness of the plight of threatened frog species worldwide and celebrate these amazing amphibians.
What are frogs?
Frogs are amphibians, meaning they can live on land and in water. They have smooth, moist skin and long hind legs to jump great distances. Over 7500 different species of frogs are found worldwide, from tropical rainforests to deserts.
Why are frogs important?
Frogs play an essential role in our environment as they help keep insect populations under control by eating large numbers of insects, such as mosquitoes. They also act as indicators for environmental health; if something is wrong with the environment, it will often be reflected in changes in frog populations first.
How can we help protect frogs?
There are many ways we can help protect frogs and their habitats:
- Reduce or eliminate pesticide use near wetlands or other areas where frogs live. Pesticides can poison frogs directly or indirectly through their food sources.
- Create a habitat for frogs by leaving logs, rocks, and other natural materials around your yard or garden so they have places to hide from predators.
- Plant native plants that provide food sources for frogs, such as insects and spiders.
- Please educate yourself about local frog species so you can recognize them when you see them and report any sightings to your local wildlife agency or conservation organization.
Celebrate World Frog Day!
This World Frog Day, why not appreciate these fantastic creatures? No matter how you celebrate World Frog Day this year, remember that every little bit helps protect these incredible animals! Visit a nearby wetland or pond to observe local frog species in their natural habitat, join a citizen science project like FrogWatch USA, which collects data on frog populations nationwide, or even create a backyard habitat for frogs!
