Rarely can a simple nature discovery compete with a blockbuster film, but in this case, it’s at least in the same ballpark with an epic piece of cinema AND it’s sequels.
Scientists have found a never-before-discovered species of frog in Río Negro-Sopladora National Park in Ecuador. The discoverers say this new frog is so spectacular that it deserves and epic name. And since they seem to be big fans, they’ve named this celebrity frog after J.R.R. Tolkien, the author of Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Hence, Hyloscirtus tolkieni.
Whether or not Tolkien would consider this an honor, we can’t know. But my guess is that the guy who had the imagination to create Middle Earth would find it pretty cool.
With this in mind, I’m curious to know what known animal should be renamed after you and what that name should be? You could take a stab at the Latin if you want, but I’m looking for a simple English word or phrase. Post in the comments below or you can text me at 208-442-8950.
