The **Darwin’s Frog (Rhinoderma darwinii)** is a species of amphibian from the Rhinodermatidae family, endemic to the temperate forests of **Chile** and **Argentina**.
The species was discovered in 1834 by the famous English naturalist **Charles Darwin** during his visit to Chile. Currently, it is **classified as Endangered** due to the reduction of native forests and a disease known as **chytridiomycosis** that affects amphibians.
New population discovered in the Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park in Chile
A new population of Darwin’s frog was found a few meters from Lake Llanquihue, in the **Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park**, in the Los Lagos Region.
This **protected wilderness area**, founded in 1926, is the oldest national park in Chile and annually receives the highest number of visitors nationwide.
As experts reported in a statement, “68 Darwin’s frogs were unexpectedly sighted in what would represent not only a **new population for the species**, but also one of the most numerous known today.”
Conservation commitment
Beyond the **binational border**, the Nahuel Huapi and Vicente Pérez Rosales national parks together host nearly 1 million hectares of uninterrupted natural environments.
The **tiny 3 cm amphibian** inhabits that area but had not been observed for several years in that extensive area. While the Darwin’s frog does not depend on bodies of water to survive like other amphibians, it does need **high environmental humidity**.
In the short term, the idea is for park rangers from both countries to start **binational monitoring** of Darwin’s frog populations in both protected areas.
Characteristics of the Darwin’s Frog
The Darwin’s frog **is a unique species with more than special characteristics**. Unfortunately, it is endangered, and that is why there are professionals dedicated to locating, studying, and spreading the importance of preserving its habitat.
With a small body that does not exceed 3 centimeters, its color can vary between green and brown. Its shape resembles that of a leaf, and due to the tones it adapts, it easily blends in with the surroundings, **perfectly camouflaging itself**.
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