Leaping with frogs at the Johannesburg
Johannesburg, February 2008
Proponents of the environment have declared 2008 the “Year of
the Frog” to raise awareness of a threatening, mass extinction
of amphibian species - the most significant since the dinosaur.
Frogs, toads, water salamanders and
salamanders form the group of amphibians.
The Amphibian Ark, World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA)
and its members support this global campaign.
Guided by the above, the Johannesburg
Zoo embarks on this international campaign to save frogs. The
message we are sending to the public is that if we begin to
embrace the earth more as a community to which we belong, rather
than a commodity belonging to us, we might begin to cherish our
natural connections and help our own survival.
Our frogs are gradually facing mass
extinction of species. Mass extinction can be stopped if we
understand the importance of biodiversity.
Visit the Johannesburg zoo on the 29th
February 2008 to learn more about our amphibian friends! On this
day, the Zoo will be filled with children from various schools
around Gauteng. Activities will include (amongst others)
education: Learn how amphibians have played a role in human
cultures around the world! Kids will test their mental and
physical skills to learn about amphibians around the world and
what the zoo is doing to help them out.
Learners will write a short message for
frogs in South Africa. Compare their leaping skills to some
frogs and toads from around the world including skipping robes,
jumping castle etc. The event will take place at the Bandstand
at 10:00-12:30am.
Did you know?
The only type of amphibians that occur
in South Africa is frogs and toads.
Astoundingly the ghost frog is only found on Table Mountain. It
lives in the fast flowing streams on the mountain, is very
scarce and endangered. The name ghost frog stems from the fact
that it is only seen at night.
Did you know that amphibians are found
on every continent except Antarctica? Come and explore what they
eat, what eats them, and how we care for some of the amphibians
here at the Zoo. The Johannesburg zoo invites all people to
celebrate Leap Day in style. Contact Sandra Hlungwani at 011 646
2000 x 225 to RSVP. |
