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Dusky Gopher Frog Rebounds from Brink of Extinction
21 Aug
Summary
- Dusky gopher frog population grew from fewer than 100 to around 600 adults
- Collaborative efforts by agencies, academia, and zoos saved the species from extinction
- Captive breeding programs and habitat restoration were critical to the frog's recovery
In 2025, the dusky gopher frog, a critically endangered species, has defied the odds and made a remarkable comeback. Just two decades ago, scientists knew of fewer than 100 adults left in a single seasonal pond in southern Mississippi, facing the imminent threat of the pond drying up before the tadpoles could mature. The situation worsened when a parasite hit the population, leading to a near-extinction event.
However, thanks to the tireless efforts of a collaborative team of federal and state agencies, academia, zoos, and other conservation organizations, the dusky gopher frog's trajectory has turned around. The species' numbers have now grown to around 600 adults, spread across 15 ponds and several captive populations that produce offspring. This turnaround has not been without its challenges, as the team has navigated crushing lows, dizzying highs, and chronic worry over the three-inch frogs.
The restoration of the dusky gopher frog's habitat, including the use of controlled burns, bulldozers, and chain saws to open up the canopy and rehabilitate breeding ponds, has been a crucial component of the recovery efforts. Additionally, captive breeding programs, including experiments with in vitro fertilization, have played a vital role in boosting the frog's population. The collaborative approach, with open communication and strong partnerships, has been the key to the dusky gopher frog's remarkable comeback.
