The US National Park Service has issued an unusual warning for tourists visiting the Sonoran Desert region. According to reports, the alert is to protect these animals that inhabit the Colorado River. The statement urges tourists and visitors to immediately stop licking toads in the area, as this is terrifying for the toads and could pose a health risk to the tourist.
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The Sonoran Desert is an arid region located in the southwest of the USA, where the Colorado River flows. With mountains, narrow valleys and a diverse ecosystem, the place is one of the main tourist spots in the country.
There is the habitat of the Colorado River frog (snitch alvarius), a species that has been the victim of tourists in the park. He is one of the largest frogs in North America and can reach approximately 18 centimeters. Its back is covered in a potent toxin as a natural protection.
Surely you're wondering what would make someone lick a frog. It turns out that some people believe that this practice can result in hallucinogenic experiences. Quirky, isn't it? The “hallucinogenic” substance found in the toad snitch alvarius is 5-MEO-DMT, which can also be found in some plants or illegally produced synthetically.
A recent report by The New York Times indicates that demand for the so-called "hallucinogenic frog" has increased in the years, and now there are groups that charge thousands of dollars per session for such experiences. psychedelics. The hallucinogenic effects can last up to 30 minutes and are often intense.
However, in addition to putting people's lives in danger, this habit jeopardizes the conservation of this species. That's because now these frogs have become targets of poaching and have to live with tourists who put their survival at risk.
