It's the beginning of a new year and the Association of Zoos & Aquariums have named 2008 the Year of the Frog! Why such an unusual name? According to the World Conservation Union (IUCN) it is estimated that at least one-third of all known amphibian species are threatened with extinction. Year of the Frog will hopefully increase conservation efforts by encouraging the public to learn more about amphibians and how to protect them.

Historically habitat loss and fragmentation have been the cause of many population declines and extinctions. However, many amphibian species are declining due to chytridiomycosis, an infectious disease caused by the fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis. Learn more about fungus, bacteria and conservation with these activities below.

Listening to frogs and toads? Find out more by clicking on the Frog Listening Network.

Learn how the Friends of Pheasant Branch and Middleton High School environmental studies classes in Middleton, Wisconsin are taking amphibian conservation strides in their own backyards!

Explore SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund's global conservation initiatives or take the conservation quiz at: