In the late 1980s, these toads disappeared. They have never been seen again. Some of the reasons are obvious. Most frogs and toads and many salamanders breed in wetlands, which have been destroyed at record rates. Even those wetlands which have theoretical protection under the law are not safe from the depredations of population sprawl and overdevelopment.
Amphibians respire through their skin.
The porosity of their skin, so essential to survival, is also why amphibians can be exquisitely vulnerable to pollution in the soil, air, and water. Their bellies have a special patch which is even thinner and more porous. So as they make their way through the water and mud, they become little environmental sponges, soaking up whatever is in their surroundings. Northern leopard frog Amphibians must also contend with multitudinous assaults in the forms of acid rain and acidified soils, introduction of nonnative predators, formerly rare amphibian diseases now becoming more commonplace, and the disappearing ozone layer. The reduction of the ozone buffer around the planet means more and more UVB rays are penetrating our skies and us.