Tracking the Vanishing Frogs: An Ecological Mystery

by Kathryn Phillips

In her novel-like ecological study, Phillips details scientists' efforts in wetlands, woodlands, rain forests, and laboratories to understand why so many species of frogs are vanishing. She clearly describes the environmental and human factors that threaten these underappreciated creatures and draws a fascinating, real-world picture of how science and scientists work. Photos.

Genres: Nature, Science, Nonfiction, Ecology

244 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1994

Reviews

[Rachel Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a few years old now. However, it is still relevant and a good read. Frogs and other amphibians are portrayed as "canaries in the coal mine", which are useful in measureing the health of the earth. Perhaps too basic for someone with lots of knowledge about the topic, but a good read for someone who does not have much knowledge on the subject of climate change, o-zone damage etc. Hey, it's never too late. OR IS IT!

[Pat · Rating 4 out of 5]

©1994 Parent collection

It's hard to realize that this book was written 31 years ago because the problem of vanishing frogs (and toads and salamanders) persists today. The collection of specimens for scientific research into their demise was difficult, but the collection of frogs for food/consumption was equally hard to read. Trying to raise amphibians in captivity proves to be very difficult, and re-release into the wild maybe finds them severely compromised for survival.

[Jonathan Dain · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book it was a joy to read.

[Cindi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is outdated, as it was published in 1994, but it still tells a story worth reading, especially coupled with a recent Nature program called "Frogs: The Thin Green Line." (This documentary tells of chitrid, a fungus that threatens amphibians, a new contributor to the decline of these creatures since the writing of this book).

Phillips has done an excellent job of weaving history, ecology, biology and policy into this little book. It tells a compelling and scary story of the decline of amphibians. The more I read and learn, the less I can understand people who stay skeptical about the degradation of the environment (it's looking a little like the topic of evolution).

I can't remember what lead me to this title, but I'm so glad that I found and read this book.

Our family is focusing on reptiles and amphibians this spring break. Just yesterday, we made the acquaintance of a threatened spotted turtle. These animals are endearing in their own way. I hope they never go away.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

an out of date account describing the world-wide disappearance of many frog species with several excellent profiles of people who care about frogs. it's old enough to give an interesting perspective on a global ecological conundrum (no mention of the chitrid fungus), and had me rooting for the geeky yet talented and determined field scientists all the way. i was especially glad to read about one so cal stream with a healthy population of native frogs, that has now (2009) been given wild and scenic status under the omnibus lands bill that recently passed!

[Ariana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great introduction to understanding the possible causes of global amphibian declines. Nice book to read during the Year of the Frog!

[Diana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommend for the many stories regarding the plight of frogs in our hemisphere and the great people making a difference. If you are into frogs or just nature read it. Prose style.

[Linda · Rating 3 out of 5]

While more is known now about amphibian declines, this book is still a good read and portrays well what was and wasn't known at the time.

[Rachel (Sfogs) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is packed with information!
I've learnt so much about frogs and toads,
and about how much we are hurting them.