Scientists in Southern California have announced progress in restoring the population of red-legged frogs, a species that was close to extinction. On January 30, artificial intelligence detected the frog’s breeding call in ponds near the U.S.-Mexico border. The frogs, once common along the California coast, had disappeared from 95 percent of their range because of habitat loss, invasive bullfrogs, and disease. Conservation efforts started in 2006 after researchers found a small group in Baja California, Mexico. Since 2018, egg masses have been transported across the border under permits, producing new generations in the United States. Estimates now show more than 100 adult frogs living in ponds in Southern California.

The recovery project shows how technology and international cooperation can improve conservation. Artificial intelligence helps by separating frog sounds from other environmental noise, making the work faster and more efficient. Experts said the system allows scientists to monitor breeding, identify threats such as bullfrogs, and study ecosystem health. Difficulties remain, including climate change, drought, and urban development, which continue to endanger amphibians. Despite these challenges, scientists stressed that the return of the red-legged frog demonstrates resilience and the value of cross-border collaboration. Conservationists described the project as evidence of ecological responsibility and the essential role of advanced tools in protecting biodiversity.