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Gabon forest tree frog (Leptopelis aubryi)

Gabon forest tree frog (Leptopelis aubryi)

Cute Frog of the Week: October 22, 2012

The Gabon forest tree frog (Leptopelis aubryi) is one of the more diminutive frogs ,measuring in at only 54mm in maximum length. Native to Cameroon, the Central African Republic, the Congo, the DRC, Gabon, and Nigeria, this frog may be small in size, but makes up for it with the size of its eyes, which appear to dominate its entire body. It is an extremely versatile species that can live in habitats from swamp forest to farm bush.

The Gabon forest tree frog has a mottled brown appearance resembling decaying leaves that allows it to almost blend into its surroundings, making it the ultimate illusionist. Its call is a brief series of clicks, which might take you back to Spain because of its resemblance to castanets. At the current time the species is listed as least concern by the IUCN.

Photo by Brian Gratwicke, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute.

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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