Midwife Toads

The Iberian midwife toad plays a unique role in nurturing its young. During the mating season from September to March, the male fertilizes the eggs and carries them on his back. He ensures the eggs remain safe, dark, and moist until they can be released into water. This care is crucial for the eggs' survival, and once water is found, the tadpoles hatch and are released. The male's protective role gives the species its name, the midwife toad.

During which months does the mating season of the Iberian midwife toad occur?

How does the male midwife toad transport the fertilized eggs?

What role does the male Iberian midwife toad play in nurturing the eggs?

What happens to the eggs if the male midwife toad does not provide care?

What environmental conditions allow the tadpoles to wriggle free?