Etheridge robber frog (Eleutherodactylus etheridgei)

Cute Frog of the Week: January 9, 2012

Daring to be different, Etheridge robber frogs (Eleutherodactylus etheridgei) are part of a sub-family of frogs whose young hatch as little frogs instead of tadpoles. And also unlike many other frogs, these little guys prefer rocky hillsides and dense forest to big ponds. Predators might mistake their grayish green bodies for tiny pebbles and overlook their would-be prey. Unfortunately, there are other big troubles for this little guy, including deforestation. The frog is native to Cuba where buildings and developments for tourists’ attractions continue to disturb its home.

Photo by Ariel Rodriguez via ARKive.

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.

Send us your own cute frogs by uploading your photos here: http://www.flickr.com/groups/cutefrogoftheweek/