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Papillated rain-peeper (Pristimantis phoxocephalus)

Papillated rain-peeper (Pristimantis phoxocephalus)

Cute Frog of the Week: November 5, 2012

The papillated rain-peeper (Pristimantis phoxocephalus), native to Peru and Ecuador, is a small frog that resides at dizzying heights of between 1,800 and 3,100 meters. This species receives its namesake from the small papilla or protuberance on the tip of its nose. It has a characteristic banding around its eyes, which makes it seem like a mini bandit. The papillated rain peeper can be found in the upper humid montane forest at sub-paramo, but mostly on the edges as opposed to the interior. Both livestock and selective wood extraction threaten this adorable species by leading to destruction and loss of habitat.

This peeper, though common in Ecuador, is considered much rarer in Peru. Like most peepers, this species is known for its melodic vocalizations that can be heard throughout the forest edges. It has a unique pattern on its back of alternating brown and black dots, which make it stand out among the greenery, but allows it to disappear into the dead leaf litter. This makes it a veritable Houdini! Currently, this species is listed as least concern by the IUCN.

Photo by Alejandro Arteaga via Flickr.

Every week the Panama Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project posts a new photo of a cute frog from anywhere in the world with an interesting, fun and unique story to tell. Be sure to check back every Monday for the latest addition.

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