NEED TO KNOW
- Galaxy frogs, a rare and endangered species named after the star-like speckles on their dark-colored bodies, have disappeared from a study site in the Western Ghats, India
- Several groups of photographers allegedly overturned logs and trampled vegetation where the frogs had once found refuge, according to a recent report
- “This sad event is a stark warning for the consequences of unregulated photography,” a researcher emphasized
Endangered galaxy frogs are being threatened by wildlife photography tourism.
The tiny, narrow-mouthed frogs, whose dark bodies are adorned with star-like spots, have disappeared from a study site in the Western Ghats, India, after several photography trips damaged the area, according to a report from the global conservation charity, Zoological Society of London (ZSL).
In 2020, researchers discovered that approximately seven of the rare frogs were taking refuge beneath logs on the forest floor. But in a paper published in Herpetology Notes on Dec. 17, researchers revealed that, upon returning to the study site between August 2021 and May 2022, logs had been overturned and vegetation had been trampled. As a result, there was no longer any trace of the colorful, speckled creatures.
“Named after their stunning resemblance to images of space, these beautiful yet rare frogs are unlike anything else on our tiny corner of the universe,” Rajkumar K P, a fellow of ZSL’s EDGE of Existence Programme, said. “But without careful and responsible management, we risk them disappearing off the face of the planet for good.”
In addition to disrupting the frogs’ natural habitat, an anonymous informant reported that several groups of photographers would use flash on their cameras, which can cause dehydration and stress in the rare frogs. Multiple photographers were also allegedly observed handling the frogs without gloves, increasing the risk of disease transmission.
“This sad event is a stark warning for the consequences of unregulated photography,” Rajkumar continued, referring to the disappearance of the beautiful species. “While their colouring and rarity make the galaxy frog a sought-after subject for photographers, it’s vital that those wishing to photograph these unique frogs don’t inadvertently contribute to their extinction — it would be a tragic irony if a drive to capture their likeness on camera today turned them into a thing of the past.”
Galaxy frogs live only in the forests of the southern Western Ghats and have been classified as an Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered (EDGE) species. This group includes the world’s most endangered species.
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“Done correctly, photography can be a huge asset to helping conservationists build our understanding of areas such as animal distribution or behaviour — plus, the resulting pictures can help educate others about these incredible species,” Rajkumar explained, noting that irresponsible photography has already led to bans and restrictions in India. “We need wildlife photographers to consider how they can minimise the disturbance they cause during shoots, and for those arranging or promoting such trips to ensure that photography has minimal negative impacts on wildlife and habitats.”
Dr. Benjamin Tapley, ZSL’s curator of reptiles and amphibians, explained that the disappearance of the galaxy frogs from the area points to a broader environmental concern.
“While it may seem that the galaxy frog is just one population of one species, this sad tale shows how we all have a part to play in protecting the natural world,” he added. “While we want to encourage people to get out there and appreciate all the incredible life that we share this planet with, it’s essential they do so respectfully so as not to cause further damage.”
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