Interestingly, in New Zealand, there are lots of unusual animals, which can only be found here. The Hochstetter frog is one of them!
It is, of course, endemic, and found only in the northern half of the North Island of New Zealand. What makes it unusual is that it does not go through a tadpole stage. It's also nocturnal - again unusual, has round - not slit - eyes like other frogs, only has partially webbed feet, but to top it all, it doesn't croak!
In 2004 there were only 11 known to exist, on Maungatautari Mountain. They are the most ancient species of frog in existence. Highly protected and classed as vulnerable.
Sophia had a technology project to do based on Auckland Zoo and 2008 is 'Amphibian Ark' year, saving the frogs! Hence the photo..
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