Common Name: Zhang’s Horned Toad
Scientific Name: Xenophrys zhangi
Family: Megophryidae
Nepali Name: 
Size: Male: 32.5–40 mm in Snout–vent length (SVL), Females: 44.5–50.2 mm (SVL)
Location: Godawari, Lalitpur

Zhang’s horned toad (Xenophrys zhangi) is a small forest-dwelling amphibian found in the mid-hills of Nepal, especially in moist temperate forests and along shaded streams. This species is known from elevations of around 1,462 to 2,180 meters, including records from the Kathmandu Valley and nearby forested regions.

It has a flattened body, a broad triangular head, and slightly pointed projections above the eyes that give it the characteristic “horned” appearance. The dorsal surface is usually yellowish-brown to earthy brown, helping it blend perfectly with leaf litter on the forest floor. Dark triangular markings between the eyes and V- or X-shaped patterns along the back are often visible. Its limbs have dark crossbands, while the underside is pale cream with scattered dark mottling. The skin is mostly smooth with fine granules.

Like many horned toads, this species relies heavily on camouflage and remains motionless among fallen leaves to avoid predators. It is most active during damp and rainy conditions and breeds in clear forest streams. 

Please feel free to comment below if the above species has been misidentified.

Subscribe to Prakritinepal.com for blog updates. Stay informed!