Dominica Philately: 1968 Associated Statehood – 10c Crapaud

Leptodactylus fallax, commonly known as the mountain chicken or giant ditch frog, is a critically endangered species of frog that is native to the Caribbean islands of Dominica and Montserrat. In Dominica, it is known as Crapaud (the local Creole name).

Crapauds were caught under torch at night when they searched for food. The frog was a preferred food to chicken. Fricassees and soups were made with Crapauds and used to feed the sick. Crapaud cuisine was also sought-after by tourists, who were curious to experience its unique taste.

The initial decline was linked to hunting for human consumption, along with habitat loss and natural disasters, but the most serious threat now appears to be the fungal disease chytridiomycosis, which was the primary cause of the most recent rapid decline.