Black Spotted Rock Frog seen in Danum Valley

KOTA KINABALU: The Black Spotted Rock Frog (Staurois guttatus), one of 56 amphibian species found in the Danum Valley Conservation Area, has earned the spotlight after being captured on a smartphone camera by a team of Borneo Rainforest Lodge (BRL) nature guides.

The frog was seen resting on stream rocks before being photographed by the team led by junior naturalist AK Mohd Shahrin Nizam Haisron. The image went on to secure first runner-up in the Smartphone Photography Category at the 11th International Bornean Frog Race.

Judges lauded the photo for its composition, natural colour balance, integration with the rainforest backdrop and the calm presence of the frog, reflected in its wide-open pupils.

The award was celebrated as a milestone for the BRL team, recognising both their eye for visual storytelling and their respect for the wild residents of Danum Valley. It also highlighted BRL’s ethos of combining education, conservation and immersive guest experiences to showcase Borneo’s biodiversity.

Shahrin also represented BRL at the Mammals and Herping Workshop, where he promoted Sabah as an emerging destination for mammal and herpetofauna watching – a growing niche comparable to birdwatching.

His involvement reflected BRL’s wider mission to contribute to scientific awareness while strengthening Sabah’s position in ecotourism.

Located deep within the Danum Valley Conservation Area – a pristine Class I protected rainforest – BRL offers guests rare opportunities to encounter extraordinary wildlife and explore one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems, guided by RSTG-licensed experts.

“We are incredibly proud of Shahrin and the entire Nature Guides Team for this remarkable accomplishment,” said Freddie Coleman, Chief Executive Officer of Borneo Nature Tours Sdn Bhd and Innoprise Jungle Lodge Sdn Bhd.

“Their passion, field expertise and creativity are at the heart of our guest experience. This recognition reflects the spirit of BRL and our dedication to nurturing the next generation of nature ambassadors.”