The red-eyed tree frog is an icon of Central American rainforests. It is still common, though, like many amphibians, it is affected by habitat loss and disease.
Interesting facts
- Its bright red eyes may startle predators when it suddenly opens them.
- It sleeps by day on the undersides of leaves, hiding its bright colours.
- Sticky toe pads help it climb.
- It lays eggs on leaves overhanging water.
- Hatching tadpoles drop into the water below.
- It is one of the most photographed frogs in the world.
Behaviour
Nocturnal, it hunts insects at night in the trees and rests hidden on leaves during the day.
Breeding and young
Females lay clutches of eggs on leaves above water; tadpoles fall into the water when they hatch.
Threats and conservation
Deforestation, collection for the pet trade and chytrid fungus.
Where to see it
- Tortuguero and Sarapiquí, Costa Rica
- Panama’s rainforests
- Belize
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
Costa Rica Wildlife Guide: Sloths, Quetzals, Turtles and the Best Parks
