Half of Europe’s amphibians may disappear, warn experts

MORE than half of Europe’s frog, toad and newt species could be wiped out by mid-century, scientists warned yesterday.

Amphibians across the world are at risk of extinction as a result of climate change, habitat destruction and disease, according to the Zoological Society of London (ZSL).

At a lecture at London Zoo, ZSL research fellow Dr Trent Garner warned that species such as the common toad were among those increasingly under threat. He said a recent study showed warmer winter temperatures were affecting the hibernation of toads, who would normally slow their physiology in the cold weather.