Antillen-Ochsenfrosch (Leptodactylus fallax) im Zoo Zürich

Mountain chicken

Leptodactylus fallax

This species is called a ‘mountain chicken’ because it apparently tastes like chicken. Humans have hunted it so intensively for its prized meat that it is now on the verge of extinction.

CR

Red List
Critically Endangered
Breeding programme

The mountain chicken is critically endangered. Its distribution is limited to the two Caribbean islands of Dominica and Montserrat, a situation attributed primarily to excessive hunting. It has already become extinct on five other islands.

Since the start of the 21st century, another deadly threat has emerged: the chytrid fungus, which is spreading worldwide, attacks the skin of frogs and inevitably leads to their death. To save the mountain chicken, the animals are being bred in zoos.

Taxonomy

Leptodactylidae, Leptodactylus (over 80 species)

Habitat

humid tropical forest up to 400 metres above sea level, secondary forest, riverbanks and stream banks

Behaviour and ecology

nocturnal, ground-dwelling, spending the day in burrows

Diet

insects, spiders, small reptiles and rodents

Taxonomy

Leptodactylidae, Leptodactylus (over 80 species)

Habitat

humid tropical forest up to 400 metres above sea level, secondary forest, riverbanks and stream banks

Behaviour and ecology

nocturnal, ground-dwelling, spending the day in burrows

Diet

insects, spiders, small reptiles and rodents

Godparent

Support the animals of Zoo Zurich with your annual godparent sponsorship

Mountain chicken for CHF 150.–

Become a godparent

Godparent

Support the animals of Zoo Zurich with your annual godparent sponsorship

Mountain chicken for CHF 150.–

Become a godparent
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