AnimaliaIUCN LCIn Progress Recent Sighting

Smilisca baudinii

Mexican Tree Frog

Duméril and Bibron, 1841

Detailed Texts Multi-lang

A medium to large-sized frog with a robust build. Its dorsal coloration is highly variable, capable of changing rapidly between brown, gray, or green tones, often with irregular dark spots. It possesses large adhesive disks on its fingers that facilitate its arboreal life.

Added by

Anonymous Curator

Reviewed by

Under Review

Last modified by

Julia Trouin

Taxonomy

PhylumChordata

ClassAmphibia

OrderAnura

FamilyHylidae

GenusSmilisca

Taxonomic AuthorityDuméril and Bibron, 1841

Ecology & Status

Origin

Native

Population Trend

Stable

Breeding Season

Wet Season

Trophic Role

Insectivore

Recent Sightings

Yes

Habitat Summary Multi-lang

Inhabits a wide variety of ecosystems, from humid tropical forests to dry jungles, agricultural areas, and urban gardens. It is an extremely adaptable species and common in disturbed areas.

Behaviour Multi-lang

Mostly nocturnal species. During the day, it is found sheltering in tree hollows, bromeliads, or even under bark to avoid desiccation.

Social Activity Multi-lang

Generally solitary outside the breeding season. During rains, males form choruses in temporary ponds, actively competing to attract females.

Feeding Guild Multi-lang

Active ambush hunter. Uses its sticky tongue to catch prey that approach its position on leaves or branches.

Trophic Chain Details Multi-lang

Opportunistic insectivore. Its diet consists of a wide range of arthropods, including beetles, moths, crickets, and other small insects captured in the vegetation.

Reproductive Behaviour Multi-lang

Oviparous species. The female deposits large groups of eggs in temporary ponds or permanent water bodies. The larvae develop rapidly in the water.

Physical Measures

Length (cm)

5.0 - 9.0 cm

Weight (Grams)

15 g - 45 g

Offspring per cycle100 - 1000

Sexual DimorphismYes

Lifespan

Sexual Maturity

1 - 2 Years

Gestation / Incubation

1 - 2

Lifespan Estimated

Males3 - 6 Years

Females3 - 6 Years

Sexual Dimorphism

Males Multi-lang

Males are smaller and possess a very developed and evident subgular vocal sac, used during their mating songs.

Females Multi-lang

Females are larger and more robust than males, with a coloration that may appear more uniform in certain resting phases.

Evolutionary Adaptations Multi-lang

Color Change Capability: It can drastically alter its skin tonality in response to temperature, humidity, and the environment, allowing it to effectively hide from predators.

Main Threats Multi-lang

Although resilient, contamination of stagnant water sources and excessive urbanization can drastically reduce available breeding sites.

Interesting Facts Multi-lang

It is known for its incredibly loud and deep mating calls, which can be heard over long distances, marking its presence on rainy nights.