🦎 Two-thirds of all salamander species are lungless; instead, they breathe through their skin. A salamander’s body absorbs oxygen, but it can also absorb other elements, too. Because of this, they are very susceptible to pollution and toxins in the environment. . . . 🚯 The health of a salamander population in an area says a lot about the health of the whole ecosystem. The best things folks at home can do for salamanders are to refrain from polluting; be mindful of the pesticides you use in you

Meet the biggest (and weirdest looking) salamander in the U.S.—the hellbender. Like many amphibians, these giants are dying off at alarming rates. We followed a team who are trying to reintroduce hellbender babies to the wild, before it's too late. Check out more from @Joe's Big Idea! | NPR