How much do you know about frogs? Simon Watt thinks there is much to learn: including the fact they are better than most people he knows.

Mr Watt, a biologist, writer, science communicator and TV presenter, is to stage on Friday his popular comedy event about frogs in Sofia.

His show is part of the Sofia Science Festival running Thursday to Sunday near the Bulgarian Capital's downtown area.

"Frogs are useful and studying them has led to some surprising benefits for us.  Research into their biology has helped create the first pregnancy tests, cloning technology, psychedelic drugs, potential cures for cancer, magnetic levitation and a new wave of antibiotics," one can read on the website of the British Council, which has organized the festival for the fifth year running.

Frogs "might be brilliant but, sadly, they are dying out," the introduction reads further.

Recently, Mr Watt has also been known for his commitment to the Ugly Animal Preservation Society (where he is president for life), a roadshow "with a conservation twist". In his opinion, cute and cuddly pandas are given too much attention, while other species are utterly neglected for being "aesthetically challenged".


Everywhere there is a tour (at a festival for example), people are to elect their own "ugly animal mascot".

This week Bulgaria elects its own #uglyanimal mascot. Choose wisely. The pubic louse was probably not what @WildscreenFest had expected

— UAPS (@UglyAnimal) May 14, 2015

 They have to choose between animals most people tend to dislike; but Mr Watt believe it is time for attitudes to change.

Friday's comedy night begins 20:00 at the Sofia Theater. This is also where tickets for the event are available.