CoCo’s Call to Conservation - CoCo Cox NEW Animal Ambassador to the LR Zoo!!

Friday is leap day and one of my first duties as an official ambassador for the Little Rock Zoo is to tell you all about an important conservation effort of accredited zoos across the country. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) has declared 2008 the Year of the Frog. You probably didn’t know that our little amphibian friends are in danger of extinction. Climate change, loss of habitat, and a deadly virus are all contributing to the decimation of our slimy but lovable amphibian friends. But, there are things you can do to help! CoCo’s Call to Conservation this month is to help amphibians in our backyard. I have made it my personal pledge to not bark, chase, or harm any amphibians I see in my yard. There’s a lot you can do, too! Check-out these tips:

• Create amphibian friendly environments by providing clean water, hiding places, and insects to eat.
Prime amphibian real estate includes leaf litter, rocks, logs, and a source of water - backyard ponds make a great family project!

• Don’t pollute.
Do your part to keep garbage and chemicals out of the natural environment. Amphibians absorb chemicals through their skin easily.

• Reduce the use of fossil fuels, such as oil, coal and natural gas.
Climate change is impacting amphibian populations worldwide. By using less energy or choosing renewable sources of energy, you can help slow the rate of climate change. Drive less, buy fuel-efficient cars, and use compact fluorescent light bulbs!

To learn more and to pledge to be a Friend to Frogs, visit www.aza.org/yearofthefrog

Here I am with "FROG". He was my very first friend to play with! I like it when he ribbits!!

-CoCo "I can ribbit, too" Cox