H4_W6B_008

Date: 2022

Location: Costa Rica

Did you know?

The Red-eyed Tree Frog, scientifically known as Agalychnis callidryas, is a visually stunning and iconic amphibian species found in the tropical rainforests of Central America, particularly in countries like Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, and Panama. It is a member of the tree frog family, Hylidae. These tree frogs are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the night. During the day, they rest on leaves, camouflaged by their green coloration. Their diet consists of a variety of small insects and invertebrates. One of the most fascinating aspects of the Red-eyed Tree Frog is its reproductive behavior. They lay their eggs on leaves above water bodies like ponds or streams. When the eggs hatch, the tadpoles drop into the water below, where they continue their development. This unique reproductive strategy helps protect the eggs from aquatic predators. The Red-eyed Tree Frog is popular in the pet trade due to its striking appearance, but its collection for this purpose can sometimes negatively impact wild populations. Conservation efforts are crucial for protecting their rainforest habitats and ensuring that they continue to thrive in the wild. Preserving the forests and wetlands of Central America is vital for the survival of this beautiful and charismatic amphibian species.

About the picture

This frog is renowned for its vibrant and distinctive appearance. It has bright green skin on its dorsal side, which provides camouflage among the lush leaves of the rainforest. Its large, bulging, and bright red eyes serve as a defensive mechanism, as they startle potential predators when the frog opens its eyes suddenly. The Red-eyed Tree Frog is a relatively small amphibian, typically measuring around 5 to 7.5 centimeters (2 to 3 inches) in length. It has sticky toe pads on its fingers and toes, which allow it to easily cling to leaves and branches.

Fun Fact

They've been around for millions of years