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    Scaphiophryne

    The spade-like projections on their hind feet make them excellent burrowers

    These frogs are small to medium-sized, generally ranging from 2 – 6 cm (0.8 – 2 in) in length. They have robust, rounded bodies with short limbs, which are well-adapted for burrowing. Their skin is often smooth and can vary in color from brown and green to more vibrant hues, sometimes with striking patterns and markings that provide camouflage in their natural habitats.

    One of the most distinctive features of Scaphiophryne frogs is their spade-like projections on their hind feet. These specialized structures help them dig into the soil, allowing them to create burrows for shelter and breeding. Their eyes are typically large and positioned high on their heads, giving them a wide field of vision.

    These frogs are exclusively found in Madagascar, an island renowned for its unique and diverse wildlife. They inhabit a range of environments, including rainforests, savannas, sandy and rocky areas. Their adaptability to different habitats across Madagascar showcases their evolutionary success on the island. They are also primarily nocturnal, becoming active at night to forage for food. They are insectivores, feeding on various small invertebrates, including insects, spiders, and worms. Their diet reflects their opportunistic feeding habits, as they consume whatever prey is most abundant in their environment.