LEAP INTO YEAR OF THE FROG WITH NEW HOUSTON ZOO WEB SITE

Media Note: Media covering the Leap Day launch of the Year of the Frog Web site and L. F. Smith Elementary school event at 10:15 a.m. Friday, February 29 may enter the Zoo at 1513 N. MacGregor. Parking and golf cart transport to the activity site will be provided. For more information, please contact Brian Hill at 281-380-5232 (cell).

(HOUSTON) February 28, 2008 … The Houston Zoo is joining zoos and aquariums around the world declaring 2008 the Year of the Frog, drawing attention to the global decline of amphibian populations. The celebration of all things froggy begins in earnest on Leap Day, Friday, February 29 with the debut of the Zoo’s new “one hop stop” for all things amphibian at www.houstonzoofrogs.org..

Join the Houston Zoo and 150 first graders from Pearland ISD’s L. F. Smith Elementary school for the official Leap Day debut of the new Year of the Frog Web site at 10:15 a.m. Friday, February 29th. Zoo education staff will lead the students in a rousing chorus of a song especially written for Leap Day 2008 and a ceremonial leap to mark the day.

What’s the difference between a toad and a frog? Where do toads and frogs live? What can you do to make your local environment more frog friendly? The Houston Zoo’s “Leap Into Action” Web site is designed to be Year of the Frog headquarters for students, teachers and anyone concerned about saving frogs, toads, newts and salamanders around the world - and even in your own back yard. The Zoo’s new Web site includes unique interactive education features, a Frog Blog, classroom material for teachers and more.

Frog Habitats
Enjoy an entertaining and informative interactive feature with the Habitat Scroller. Take a virtual hike through 4 different environments and discover the unique inhabitants of each area from desert to rainforest.

Just for Kids
Youngsters can learn how to make a Toad Abode – a cozy toad house for a backyard garden. The page also includes froggy crafts and coloring sheets.

Amphibian Fun Facts
Check in each day and learn more about these fascinating creatures. How do toads differ from frogs? Do they really breathe through their skin?

Frog Blog
Stay up to date with Year of the Frog activities and learn fascinating facts about amphibians when you visit the Frog Blog.

Teachers and Students
Learn more about amphibians when you click on Teachers and Students. You’ll find fun curriculum, frog crafts, activities, games and an inside look at the amphibian field work conducted by Houston Zoo staff.

Amphibians In Crisis
Frogs are going extinct. So are toads, salamanders, and newts. In fact, the World Conservation Union (IUCN) estimates that at least one-third of the world’s known amphibian species are threatened with extinction. Find out more when you click on Amphibians In Crisis and discover the conservation challenge faced by the world’s leading scientists and researchers.

For additional information on this release, please contact:

Brian Hill

Phone: (713) 533-6531

Email:

Source: Houston Zoo

Website: http://www.houstonzoofrogs.org