Amphibians deserve our love

Amphibians frequently receive less attention than they deserve, though they are worthy of our admiration. Although frogs and toads may not be universally considered charming, the EU LIFE AMPHICON project recognizes their value and advocates for their appreciation.

Historically, amphibians like frogs, toads, and newts have held significant roles in European folklore, sometimes admired, sometimes feared. The well-known tale of the Frog Prince, featured in stories from the Brothers Grimm to Disney, highlights their mythical status. Now, LIFE AMPHICON aims to ensure that Europe’s amphibians are once again part of a narrative with a positive outcome.

What is EU LIFE AMPHICON project

The EU LIFE AMPHICON project is dedicated to protecting amphibian populations across Europe, focusing on frogs, toads, newts, and other species. It aims to restore and conserve critical habitats that are essential for their survival, such as wetlands, ponds, and forests. 

The project also works to reduce threats like pollution, habitat destruction, and invasive species, which have caused significant declines in amphibian populations. Through scientific research, public awareness campaigns, and collaboration with local communities, LIFE AMPHICON strives to ensure the long-term survival of amphibians and enhance biodiversity throughout Europe.

Focus of EU LIFE AMPHICON project

The seven-year, EUR 8 million LIFE AMPHICON project, which stands for Amphibian Conservation and Habitat Restoration, is focused on reversing the long-term decline of three key amphibian species across six Natura 2000 sites in Slovenia, Denmark, and Germany. The fire-bellied toad, yellow-bellied toad, and Italian crested newt, all listed on the IUCN Red List and protected under Annex IV of the Habitats Directive, are the primary targets. 

Additionally, the project benefits four other species: the northern crested newt, agile frog, moor frog, and European tree frog.

Long-term EU LIFE focus

The EU LIFE program prioritizes the long-term protection of amphibians due to their critical role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Amphibians act as indicators of environmental health, and their decline signals broader ecological issues, such as habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. Protecting these species helps safeguard biodiversity and the overall integrity of natural habitats. 

Given that many amphibian populations are rapidly declining across Europe, the EU LIFE resources focus on habitat restoration, threat mitigation, and conservation strategies to ensure their survival. By investing in long-term protection, the program not only aims to preserve amphibians but also to enhance the resilience of ecosystems that support a wide range of species, benefiting the environment as a whole. 

Long-term results

Result is that over 30 years, LIFE has been working to protect amphibians. Earlier this year, LIFE AMPHICON, along with numerous other LIFE projects across Europe, received support through the adoption of the new EU Nature Restoration Law. With more than 80% of Europe’s natural habitats in a degraded state, the law seeks to restore wetlands, rivers, forests, grasslands, and marine ecosystems, along with the species that depend on them.

Interesting examples of LIFE AMPHICON

It’s worth noting the significant achievements of LIFE AMPHICON. In just two years, Slovenia’s first amphibian breeding station, which is also Europe’s first for Italian crested newts, released over 300 specimens into the wild. In Denmark, 3,600 fire-bellied toads were bred and released within three years. Additionally, in collaboration with the Slovenian Road Agency DRSI, more than 60 road tunnels and ten kilometres of fences are being constructed to protect amphibians from traffic during their annual migrations.

This summer, the first of three educational trails was opened in Slovenia’s Ljubljana Marshland, along with an outdoor classroom, a new bird observatory, and a mobile exhibition. The project team has also restored or established three coastal wetlands in Denmark, created 100 new ponds in Slovenia, and revitalized over 30 kettle holes in Germany. Additionally, grasslands, hedgerows, and other hibernation habitats have been restored.

Conclusion

The recent efforts in amphibian conservation have shown particular significant progress, with the establishment of educational trails and habitat restoration projects across Europe. These initiatives not only restore vital ecosystems but also engage the public and promote awareness about the challenges amphibians face. 

By revitalizing critical habitats and creating new conservation sites, the project demonstrates the importance of combining education with on-the-ground action. Continued public involvement and knowledge sharing will be essential to sustaining these conservation efforts and ensuring the long-term survival of amphibian species.