Bad Bunny Video Boosts Puerto Rican Crested Toad Conservation Chicago

Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny has spotlighted the endangered Puerto Rican crested toad in several music videos from his latest album, significantly boosting conservation efforts led by Brookfield Zoo in Chicago. The zoo has been instrumental in preserving the species, housing about 30 crested toads and successfully breeding them, with thousands of tadpoles recently transported from Illinois to Puerto Rico for release into the wild. Bad Bunny's videos have also inspired donations to the Puerto Rican Crested Toad Conservancy, enabling the construction of a new breeding center. Brookfield Zoo's efforts have resulted in nearly 27,000 toads reintroduced to their native habitat since 2012, helping to revive this species once thought extinct. Mike Masellis, the zoo's lead animal care specialist for aquatics, highlighted how this newfound awareness has engaged the public and supported ongoing conservation initiatives. The collaboration showcases how celebrity influence can play a vital role in wildlife preservation.