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Amazon milk frog (Trachycephalus resinifictrix)

Amazon milk frog (Trachycephalus resinifictrix)

Cute Frog of the Week: November 1, 2010

Also known as the mission golden-eyed tree frog or blue milk frog, the Amazon milk frog (Trachycephalus resinifictrix) makes its home in South America where it lives above or near slow-moving water in humid rain forests. Its name comes from the toxic milky-white substance it secretes from its body when it feels threatened. The substance is designed to deter predators but can also help the milk frog stay hydrated. One of the largest tree frogs in South America, the males can grow up to 4 inches long and the females can grow up to 4.5 inches.

Typical of the tree frog species, the milk frog has large finger disks that help it adhere to the slippery plant surfaces—a talent that certainly comes in handy during the daytime when the frog is sleeping among the rainforest foliage and hiding from predators. At night, after the sun goes down, the milk frog emerges to hunt for nocturnal insects that it can devour for a tasty meal.

Photo credit: Brian Gratwicke, Panama Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project.

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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.