Scientists call amphibian extinction rate 'terrifying'

A just-published map of the world's most endangered species of mammals and amphibians shows that very little of the habitat critical to these species' survival is being protected. From the BBC:

Amphibians are suffering a "terrifying" rate of extinction say the researchers, making them the most threatened vertebrates in the world. The Mexican salamander or axolotl is being threatened by expanding cities, pollution and invasive fish species which eat their young. While many of the survival issues facing species highlighted on the map are extremely challenging, sometimes small changes can make a big difference. (Zoological Society of London Director of Conservation Jonathan) Baillie highlights the example of a small worm like amphibian from Kenya called the Sagalla caecilian. "It was just losing its habitat because the native trees were taken, so we've started a programme of replanting the native trees and 6,000 have been replanted and the areas where they have their strongholds are now being protected." "That kind of simple action can ensure that those species can be there hopefully for hundred of years to come."

Read the rest here. Photo: Mexican salamander/ZSL