Northern Pool Frog
about
Partners: Natural England, Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (ARC), ZSL DRAHS Vets
The Northern Pool Frog (Pelophylax lessonae), once extinct in the UK, has been the focus of a major reintroduction programme led by ARC and Natural England. Since the species' presumed extinction in 1995, conservationists have successfully reintroduced populations at two sites in Norfolk, first using Swedish-sourced frogs in 2005, followed by captive-reared tadpoles in 2019.
With grant funding from Natural England, ZSEA is supporting the next stage of this long-term project by establishing a dedicated pool frog facility at Banham Zoo. The facility will rear and breed frogs through their most vulnerable life stages before releasing them into their historical range. This initiative aims to create an insurance population and expand reintroductions to additional sites to secure the species' future in the UK.
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Why did the northern pool frog go extinct in the UK?
The northern pool frog became extinct in the UK in 1995 due to habitat loss, drainage of wetlands, and climate changes that affected their breeding sites. Conservation efforts have since focused on reintroducing the species to its historical range.
How is Banham Zoo contributing to the conservation of the northern pool frog?
With funding from Natural England, Banham Zoo has established a dedicated pool frog facility to rear and breed frogs through their most vulnerable life stages. This initiative helps create an insurance population and supports future reintroductions to secure the species’ survival in the UK.
How can I support Banham Zoo?
There are many ways to support us! You can become a member, make a one-time donation, adopt an animal, join as a corporate partner, leave a legacy gift, or volunteer your time. Explore our Support Us page for details on each option.
