Finding Species will travel throughout Texas to scientifically photo document endangered species and their habitats which began with the Rio Grande River Cooter. Thanks to the generous support of individuals, Finding Species was able to document this single species. We have many more opportunities in central Texas to feature species like the endemic salamanders, the Houston Toad, Texas Wild Rice, and the critically imperiled Peck’s Cave Amphipod. Some species are only available perhaps once a year, like the Houston Toad. In early Spring the Houston Toad gathers at ponds around Bastrop, Texas to breed. Researchers at Texas States University monitor these populations and are authorized to handle this highly endangered species. As the first amphibian to be placed on the Federally Endangered Species List in 1970, the Houston Toad has lost critical habitat due to development, invasive species, and natural disasters, therefore it is critical to document them and share their plight. In the early spring evenings, the Houston Toad emerges from its underground burrows to breed. Finding Species will take the studio into the field and photo document this elusive species and habitat working closely with researchers.
Finding Species brings species and places to the people and to government officials through vivid photographs, conservation action, and science. We make the existence of the plants and animals and wilderness undeniable and uniquely compelling. We promote sustainable alternatives to large-scale development; best practices in development; more informed political decisions; and laws that conserve wildlife and maintain its biocultural value. We also advance stakeholder involvement by engaging local communities in this work by protecting native, endemic, and endangered species and imperiled habitats. Finding Species is unique in that it integrates science, photography, and design to create standardized methods of photo documenting plants and animals, using these photos to engage critical audiences into action.
Please help us document this elusive species before it is gone. Habitat loss is critical and the eminent danger to each species survival and the Houston Toad is facing a very challenging situation.
We hope you will support bringing a face to biodiversity.
