Endangered froglets born after dramatic 7,000-mile rescue mission

More than 30 endangered froglets have been born at London Zoo after a dramatic 7,000-mile rescue mission.

The Darwin’s frog, named after Charles Darwin, faces extinction after the introduction of chytrid fungus to their habitat.

In 2023, it was confirmed the deadly fungus had arrived in the Parque Tantauco forests in southern Chile – leading to a 90% decline in monitored populations within a year.

While conservationists work out how to make their forest home safe, the survival of the Darwin’s frog could depend on safe refuges like the one London Zoo has provided.

However, bringing the endangered amphibians to the UK was no easy task, requiring a trip to Chile and a painstaking hunt for the tiny creatures, with the fully-grown fathers coming in at less than 3cm.

Having secured 53 to bring to London, the efforts of the zoo’s conservationists have been rewarded with the arrival of 33 froglets.

Ben Tapley, curator of amphibians at London Zoo, said: “This is a landmark moment in our work to protect the Darwin’s frog from the devastating impact of chytrid fungus.

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“The successful parent-rearing of these froglets is a powerful symbol of hope for the species, highlights what can be achieved when conservationists work together, and serves as a critical reminder of the role of our conservation zoo.

“We knew we were embarking on something special – the clock was ticking, and we needed to act quickly if we were going to save these frogs – and capturing this work on film has really cemented just how vital our work is.”

The 33 froglets were carried and brooded by 11 of the male frogs, who carry the tadpoles in their vocal sacs until they are ready.