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Panama cross-banded treefrog (Simlisca sila)

Panama cross-banded treefrog (Simlisca sila)

Cute Frog of the Week: June 6, 2011

Nightfall in the misted lowland forests of Costa Rica, Panama, and northern Columbia awakens a brown frog with characteristic blue thighs. The Panama cross-banded treefrog (Similisca sila) hides among the dense overhanging vegetation on forest floors. The moisture of mist and droplets of water are not enough for the little frog; it stays close to slow-moving stream banks and shallow rocky pools where its tadpoles can be found. It is not afraid of the dark or of heights. It can venture higher in the forest or even to more open landscapes if it so desires. The Panama cross-banded treefrog can live in secondary forest complete with dense vegetation. It has been found ranging from sea level to 500 meters above sea level.

This beautiful frog is a common amphibian species found in Panama and Colombia. Its range is expanding in Costa Rica, where it is still considered rare. Though the Panama cross-banded treefrog is not considered endangered, it is still vulnerable to deforestation, pollution, illegal crops and human settlement.

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

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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