The Amphibian and Reptile Trust International (ARTI) focuses on protecting the habitat needed by amphibian and reptile species. Amphibians include frogs, toads, salamanders, newts and caecilians. Reptiles include crocodiles, alligators, turtles, lizards and snakes. We are facing a world-wide threat as amphibian and reptile populations are declining dramatically. Today, it is estimated that of all identified species of amphibians, 39% are at risk of being lost forever. Another 20% of species do not have enough information to determine their conservation status. The picture is only slightly better for reptiles, with 24% of species at risk, and 20% lacking the data to determine their status.
We are facing dramatic losses in amphibian and reptile species. There are many reasons why these species are disappearing, but the loss of habitat is often the primary reason. Today, some 20,000 species of amphibians and reptiles have been identified, and because of their unique characteristics many of these species act as environmental barometers telling us much about our world. The snapshot of species health is not good. The status of amphibians and reptiles worldwide, as a percentage of species at risk:
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Frogs and ToadsEndangered – 22%
Vulnerable – 15%
Data Deficient – 20% -
Salamanders and NewtsEndangered – 39%
Vulnerable – 26%
Data Deficient – 7% -
CaeciliansEndangered – 5%
Vulnerable – 3%
Data Deficient – 56% -
CrocodiliansEndangered – 30%
Vulnerable – 22%
Data Deficient – 22% -
LizardsEndangered – 12%
Vulnerable – 13%
Data Deficient – 12% -
SnakesEndangered – 7%
Vulnerable – 9%
Data Deficient – 21% -
Turtles and TortoisesEndangered – 37%
Vulnerable – 38%
Data Deficient – 4%
*Source: International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List Database (2020)
Our approach is to complement the large landscape conservation efforts across the globe. We often focus on small, yet important pieces of habitat. Such habitat can include breeding areas, winter hibernation dens, migration corridors, rare habitat types, and areas of high amphibian and reptile species diversity. Our main focus is on finding and protecting important habitat, while ARTI will also support scientific research, field monitoring, land management, restoration, captive breeding programs and education. We do this by working with local partners on the ground. Check out our current projects.
