Darwin Toad (Melanophryniscus montevidensis)

Melanophryniscus montevidensis, commonly known as Darwin's Toad—a small but remarkable amphibian endemic to Uruguay and a small region of Brazil. This species is facing increasing threats due to habitat destruction caused by urban expansion along Uruguay's coastal regions, mainly for tourism and hotels.

During my time in Uruguay in 2023, I had the privilege of documenting these toads and witnessing the tireless efforts of local researchers working to protect them. Among them is Dr. Raúl Maneyro and his team at the Laboratorio de Herpetología, Facultad de Ciencias, Udelar (University of the Republic Uruguay). Their work highlights the urgent need for conservation measures to preserve the remaining microhabitats essential for the species' survival.