top of page

Binational Conservation Strategy for Darwin’s Frogs

The Binational Conservation Strategy for Darwin’s Frogs is a long-term action plan designed to protect these endemic species of Chile and Argentina. Its development began in 2017 with a seminar and workshop, and it was officially launched in 2018. The strategy has been updated in 2024 and 2025, consolidating actions such as establishing guidelines for implementing ex situ conservation programmes and translocations.

The main objective is to generate knowledge, reduce threats, strengthen cooperation, and implement concrete actions to ensure the survival of Darwin’s frogs. Key actions include the creation of the RECOGE Plan of the Environment Ministry of Chile, which aims to mitigate the critical threats these species face.

The strategy is supported by a wide network of institutions and has proven to be a crucial effort in protecting these amphibians and their ecosystems.

logo taller estrategia rhinoderma

Creation of the Binational Conservation Strategy for Darwin’s Frogs (2017)

In September 2017, a seminar and workshop were held to develop the "Darwin’s Frogs Conservation Strategy." This initiative was led by the IUCN Amphibian Specialist Group, sponsored by Chile’s Ministry of the Environment, and hosted at Universidad Andrés Bello. Additionally, a workshop took place in Puerto Fuy at the Huilo Huilo Biological Reserve, bringing together 30 participants. During the workshop, key stakeholders worked in thematic groups to initiate the development of a binational conservation strategy between Chile and Argentina, aimed at guiding the protection of both Darwin’s frog species for the coming decades.

Launch of the Binational Strategy and Website (2018)

In 2018, the Binational Conservation Strategy for Darwin’s Frogs was officially launched, marking a significant milestone in the conservation of these amphibians in Chile and Argentina. Alongside this, a dedicated website was created to provide public access to key information, objectives, and actions outlined in the strategy. This platform serves as a hub for collaboration, sharing scientific research, conservation updates, and resources to support the protection of Darwin’s frogs and their habitats.

foto lanzamiento estrategia rhinoderma (auditorio lleno de personas)

Update of the Strategy (2024)

On 4th and 5th January 2024, a workshop was held to update the Binational Conservation Strategy for Darwin’s Frogs. This event brought together 37 representatives from 22 institutions across Chile, Argentina, the United Kingdom, and Germany, including public agencies such as CONAF, SAG, and the Ministry of the Environment (MMA), as well as universities, NGOs, zoological parks, and private companies.

Among the topics discussed, a key priority identified was the development of a RECOGE Plan (Recovery, Conservation, and Management Plan) for Darwin’s Frogs, based on the Binational Conservation Strategy. This plan aims to gain official recognition of the strategy in Chile, strengthening its implementation and the involvement of key stakeholders such as the MMA, CONAF, and SAG.

By mid-2024, the Ministry of the Environment initiated a fast-track process for the creation of the RECOGE Plan for Darwin’s Frogs (Rhinoderma darwinii and R. rufum). This effort, supported by Exempt Resolution No. 5.181 of 10th October 2024, seeks to mitigate the critical threats facing these species, such as habitat loss, wildfires, and chytridiomycosis. The proposal for this plan was presented by NGO Ranita de Darwin as part of the actions outlined in the Binational Conservation Strategy.

Strengthening and Action Planning (2025)

In 2025, a workshop was held focusing on the ex situ conservation and translocation of Darwin’s frogs, bringing together over 32 specialists from Chile, Argentina, Germany, and the United Kingdom. This gathering solidified the Binational Conservation Strategy for Darwin’s Frogs and the RECOGE Plan, marking a milestone in the planning of ex situ actions and translocations for these species.


During the sessions, guidelines were established to implement effective ex situ conservation and translocation programmes, priority actions were identified, and key partnerships were formed between national and international organisations. Additionally, topics such as legislation, biosecurity, infectious disease management, and educational programmes were addressed.

NGO Ranita de Darwin was responsible for facilitating the workshop, with notable participation from institutions such as Zoo Leipzig (Germany), the National Parks Administration of Argentina, the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) from the United Kingdom, Universidad Andrés Bello, Fundación Parque Tantauco, the National Zoo of Santiago’s Metropolitan Park, Fundación Nahuelbuta Natural, CONAF, MMA, Arauco, SEA, the Universidad de Concepción, SAG, and Fundación Rewilding.

This workshop highlighted the collective commitment to the conservation of Darwin’s frogs, integrating international and multidisciplinary perspectives to ensure the long-term protection of these unique species.

Darwin’s frogs are facing serious threats that endanger their survival. It is crucial to act now to protect them. By visiting www.estrategiarhinoderma.org you can learn more about the current situation of these species. Follow us on our social media channels @ranitadedarwinong and @estrategiarhinoderma to stay informed about upcoming conservation actions. Together, we can make a difference for these unique and irreplaceable creatures.

linkedinMesa de trabajo 30 copia 4.jpg
bottom of page