Answer:
The extinction of the golden toad was puzzling due to the following reasons:
Step-by-step explanation:
1. Restricted habitat in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve in Costa Rica.
2. Conservation efforts were in place to protect the golden toad's habitat.
3. The absence of natural predators in its habitat.
4. No significant loss of habitat through deforestation or destruction.
5. The rapid decline of the golden toad population.
These factors make the extinction of the golden toad perplexing and subject to ongoing research to determine the exact causes, which may include climate change, disease, and other environmental factors.