Panamanian Golden Frog

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The critically endangered, and by some accounts extinct, Panamanian Golden Frog is actually a toad. Also know as Harlequin toads, they can’t jump too far and instead hop or walk about in a clumsy manner. These frogs are unusual in that they communicate by waving at rivals and prospective mates. It is thought that this behavior developed because of the fast-moving streams in their natural habitat of tropical forest regions of Panama. To protect themselves from predators they secrete a neurotoxin. There are no accurate estimates of how long these frogs live but they can live up to 5 years or more in captivity. The male Panamanian Golden Frogs are very persistent. Clinging to the female for days, waiting on her back until the moment she is fertile. Eggs are laid at the onset of the dry season in wide shallow areas of the stream. Although the frogs are very prolific in the lab fewer and fewer tadpoles are being found in the wild. It is listed as critically endangered but it may have been extinct in the wild since 2007. A major decline may have been due to a fungal infection. Additional factors include habitat loss and pollution. It has become a national symbol and is believed to bring good luck to those fortunate enough to see one.

Panamanian Golden Frog - Fast Facts

Type: Amphibian
Diet: Insectivore
Average lifespan in the wild: 12 years
Size: 1.4 - 2.5 in (3.6 - 6.4 cm)
Weight: 0.1 - 0.5 oz (3 to 5 g)
Group name: none
Status: CRITICAL

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