Critically Endangered Moor Frog Named 'Lurch of the Year 2025'

The title aims to raise awareness about the species' decline due to habitat loss and climate change, with conservation efforts underway in Germany.

The Moor Frog, once widespread in Germany, is now critically endangered, with populations limited to a few regions such as Karlsruhe and Ravensburg in Baden-Württemberg.
Habitat loss from drained wetlands, groundwater depletion, and river modifications has significantly reduced the frog's breeding and living spaces.
Climate change exacerbates the species' decline, with summer droughts and habitat fragmentation further threatening its survival.
Conservation efforts include successful breeding and reintroduction programs, such as the Karlsruhe Zoo's release of over 600 frogs into the wild last year.
The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Herpetologie und Terrarienkunde (DGHT) hopes the 'Lurch of the Year' designation will promote research and protective measures for the species.