Red-eyed Treefrog

The red-eyed treefrog, scientifically known as Agalychnis callidryas, is a captivating creature inhabiting the rainforests from Mexico to Colombia. These frogs are easily identifiable by their striking red eyes, green bodies adorned with yellow and blue stripes, and orange or red webbed feet. During the day, they rely on their vibrant colors for camouflage, and when threatened, they flash their red eyes to startle predators.

Their diet mainly consists of insects, and they exhibit fascinating mating rituals. Male red-eyed treefrogs will shake branches to attract the attention of females, who select their mates based on the males' calls and coloration. When it’s time to lay eggs, females deposit them on leaves overhanging water. The tadpoles hatch and eventually transform into frogs. Notably, these embryos can hatch prematurely if they detect danger, a survival strategy known as phenotypic plasticity.

Red-eyed treefrogs typically live for about five years and can be bred in captivity, provided their living conditions closely mimic their natural habitat. Despite facing threats such as habitat destruction and being collected for the pet trade, they are currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. This is due to their wide distribution, large population, and the protection they receive in various conservation areas.