Even the Frogs are Leaving Illinois?

Perhaps not the whole state, but apparently Chicagoland is experiencing a decline in frogs. This is not a recent phenomena either, the frog population in and around Chicago has been dwindling over the last twenty years or so.

Some point to climate change, but a more direct cause seems to be the decrease in area wetlands, which in turn affects breeding. The recent drought plays into that angle too. Circumstances have to be just right for tadpole maturation. As they grow, if water is scarce they all can’t have the water needed and will desiccate.

Factor in water quality in what shrinking wetlands are left. The water in those places isn’t run through a filter. It can pick up all manner of chemicals as it moves to its resting point. Some frogs species have adapted, others haven’t.

There are conservation groups that track frog populations and also provide opportunities for individuals to go out and help remove litter from remaining wetland habitats around the city and try to control invasive species.

Frogs basic role within the ecosystem is to help control pests (bugs), but also are food for other animals.

The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum on North Pond by the Lincoln Park Zoo on the lake front is helping to track frogs, train monitors and recover the biodiversity in the region. Find more info on declining frogs at their frog survey.