A very plump amphibian is taking the internet by storm — and it’s not hard to see why.
With his perfectly round body and surprisingly expressive face, this unusual animal looks more like a cartoon character than a real creature. Many online observers admitted they weren’t even sure he was real at all.
And honestly, who could blame them?
Just look at him.
Speculation ran wild, with guesses ranging from a shell-less turtle to a clay sculpture gone wrong. But the truth is stranger — and cuter — than fiction.
Biologist and amphibian expert Jodi Rowley stepped in on Twitter to clear up the mystery:
“This frog is doing the rounds on social media. It’s a blunt-headed burrowing frog (Glyphoglossus molossus),” Rowley explained. “Native to drier parts of mainland Southeast Asia, this species spends most of its life underground, waiting for rain. They’ve got the perfect shape for burrowing and conserving water.”
That rotund body isn’t just for looks. When threatened, the frog can puff itself up to appear larger and scarier — though judging by people’s reactions online, it’s having quite the opposite effect.
“Honestly, I adore him,” one commenter wrote. Another added, “What a fascinating species!”
Whether you find him funny, adorable or both, one thing’s certain: this little frog has hopped straight into the hearts of people all over the world.
