How Did the Midwife Toad Get Its Name?

In southwestern Europe, there is a small toad that has been given the name of midwife or obstetrical toad. However, it is the male of the species whose services are utilized in caring for the eggs. He gets his hind legs entangled in the strings of eggs and then goes into hiding. Occasionally he ventures forth at night to feed and moistens the eggs in the water. Eventually, he goes into the water and stays there until all the eggs have hatched. After this, he is again able to take his place in amphibian circles, unencumbered by entangling strands of developing young.