Wetland amphibians

Wetlands are unique and essential ecosystems. They are home to an incredible variety of species, including amphibians. Frogs, toads, newts and salamanders may sometimes go unnoticed, but they play a crucial role in the health of our wetlands. They are true indicators of the health of these ecosystems.

About amphibians

Amphibians live in both aquatic and terrestrial habitats. Their thin, permeable skin allows them to absorb water and nutrients directly from their environment; however, this same skin makes them highly vulnerable to pollution and habitat disturbance, as any shift in water quality, humidity or soil conditions can directly affect their health and survival.

Their lifecycle is a true metamorphosis: an egg laid in water first becomes a tadpole, before transforming into an adult capable of living on land or in water, depending on the species.

Amphibians are a diverse group. In Quebec, amphibians are represented by two living groups: anurans, comprised of frogs and toads, and urodeles, which include salamanders and newts. These groups are distinguished by their body shape, how they move and certain lifestyle traits. Most frogs and toads are easily recognized by their distinct calls, which are particularly audible in the spring, while salamanders and newts are usually more discreet, nocturnal beings closely associated with forested wetlands.

Wetland amphibians: Their role in wetlands

Amphibians play several essential roles in wetland ecosystems. They keep insect populations in check, contributing to natural mosquito control. They also serve as food for numerous predators such as birds, mammals and reptiles.

What’s more, their sensitivity to changes in water and environmental conditions position them as prime biological indicators. By tracking the presence, abundance and condition of amphibian populations, scientists can monitor and assess the overall quality and health of wetland habitats.

Looming threats

Unfortunately, amphibian populations are experiencing global declines. Habitat destruction and fragmentation, water pollution, agricultural chemicals and the effects of climate change are all threatening these vulnerable species. These combined threats are why many amphibian populations are declining at an alarming rate.

The Western chorus frog: mighty challenges for a tiny amphibian

The Western chorus frog is a small amphibian measuring approximately 2.5 cm. It’s the smallest frog in Quebec. These frogs are typically found in the southwestern part of the province, mainly in the Montérégie and Outaouais regions. Their breeding sites saw significant losses from 2004 to 2009, with 30 per cent destroyed in the Outaouais region and 15 per cent in Montérégie (gouvernement du Québec, Recovery Plan for the Western Chorus Frog in Quebec, 2019-2029).

These frogs need shallow, temporary ponds for breeding. Because of their small size, they can only cover a distance of 250 metres per season. They need to be able to travel from one pond to another, as connectivity between ponds is essential to the survival of populations. If one pond dries up, other ponds allow the population to survive. Connecting populations therefore increases the species’ ability to cope with environmental variations.

This is why, since spring 2025, Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC), with the support of the city of Gatineau, has been exploring solutions to improve the connectivity between Western chorus frog breeding sites. DUC is currently working on a restoration project on one of its properties located just south of Parc du Lac-Beauchamp in Gatineau. This project aims to create interconnected temporary ponds to improve the reproduction and dispersal of the chorus frog. To find out more about this project, read our detailed article.

Western chorus frogs are an umbrella species. Protecting their habitat automatically safeguards a number of other species that rely on the same natural environments. In other words, the chorus frog “opens its umbrella” to protect an entire ecosystem.

How to protect amphibians

Protecting amphibians means protecting their habitat. Restoring wetlands, preserving natural corridors and preventing the destruction of ponds are all key actions. Even the smallest wetlands in urban areas or backyards can foster the reproduction and survival of local species. Be respectful when observing amphibians: do not handle them, and avoid disturbing their nesting sites.

In short, amphibians are the true barometers of our wetland ecosystems. Fragile and fascinating, they remind us of the importance of preserving these rich and vulnerable ecosystems. While amphibians may be discreet, their presence is a testament to the vitality of our wetlands.

Thank you to our financial partners! 

This work is supported by Environment and Climate Change Canada through the Initiative québécoise pour la protection et la restauration de l’habitat de la rainette faux-grillon de l’Ouest en Montérégie et en Outaouais, led by Nature-Action Québec, and is part of the Accélérer la conservation dans le sud du Québec (ACSQ) project for which the Nature Conservancy of Canada received funding from the gouvernement du Québec.