AssetID: 54981080
Headline: Deadly amphibian that could kill 1,200 mice celebrated on World Panamanian Golden Frog Day
Caption: This beautiful, striking amphibian may look attractive but its skin carries toxins potent enough to kill up to 1,200 mice. The Panamanian Golden Frog is critically endangered to the extent it is now thought to possibly be extinct in the wild. As such it is celebrated each year on 14 August - Panamanian Golden Frog Day, as conservationists aim to raise awareness of its plight. Five of these critically endangered amphibians are being looked after at Brookfield Zoo Chicago. Despite their name, the tiny amphibians, measuring just 2.5 to 5cm, are actually toads, rebranded as frogs to avoid confusion with the now-extinct golden toad. In Panama, despite their struggles to survive, they are a national symbol and considered a sign of good luck. Their vivid colours range from neon yellow and orange to yellowish green, patterned with black spots and stripes - a warning to predators of their deadly nature. Naturally found in montane (mountain) forests and forest streams, the toads communicate not only through chirping sounds, which they sense without eardrums via sound waves, but also through physical gestures such as waving their limbs to greet others, attract mates or defend territory. At Brookfield Zoo it is part of a Species Survival Plan – a cooperative breeding programme aimed at preserving a healthy, genetically diverse and self-sustaining population that can preserve the species’ future.
Keywords: feature,photo,Brookfield Zoo,panamanian golden frog,toad,video,animals,nature,natural world
PersonInImage: Panamanian golden frogs at Brookfield Zoo in Chicago.