A Scary Salamander update!
There is a deadly pathogen affecting wild salamanders in Europe (originating from imported Asian newts), one that has the potential to cause massive die offs of our native salamanders if it reaches North America. The U.S. has acted quickly to halt international and inter-state movement of over 200 types of salamanders due the threat of this fungus (called Bsal for short). A Canadian working group (including Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative, Environment Canada, Canadian Herpetological Society and many others) has developed some fact sheets with links to appropriate information, as well as disinfection protocols etc. They are hoping we can share this information with as many people as possible to spread the word. For more information on Bsal, a good summary can be found here: http://www.salamanderfungus.org/ though the attached fact sheets provide additional information and links.
Courtesy: Scott Gillingwater
Scientific Community Fact Sheet
Funding and Support for Adopt-A-Pond Has Been Provided By:
For more information about Toronto Zoo’s conservation programs, visit:
http://www.torontozoo.com/conservation/ and http://www.torontozoo.com/FightingExtinction/
