For some time, amphibians have been used by scientists as bio-indicators to reveal the health of an ecosystem. It’s no surprise that their numbers have been dwindling in recent years, not just throughout the world, but in my own backyard.
When my sons were young, catching frogs and salamanders was an activity that could take up the whole afternoon. The best place to look was always under the stones that created the border for the flower bed at the front of the house. The spot received less direct sunlight than other beds and was slightly moist most of the time.
If one were to build a home to attract amphibians, placing stones in dark, moist places would be a good start. Compost heaps offer a nice warm environment for salamanders. Setting apart an area with tall grass and shady borders would also likely attract some interest from frogs and toads.
Amphibians are helpful to gardeners because they keep the slug population under control. They also eat a tremendous number of insects. If you’ve noticed more ants in your yard lately, as I have, it seems like a good idea to make a few spots as inviting to amphibians as possible.
This post is the eighth in a series of 12 suggestions to ‘Do One Thing’ to encourage wildlife to thrive this Christmas. I’ve adapted suggestions offered by BBC Breathing Places in the UK. For more information, see
http://www.bbc.co.uk/breathingplaces/doonething/quick/amphibian_home.shtml
