What nocturnal amphibian is known for its bright red eyes and sticky toe pads?
Answer
Red-eyed tree frog
The nocturnal amphibian known for its bright red eyes and sticky toe pads is the red-eyed tree frog.
The red-eyed tree frog, Agalychnis callidryas, lives in humid forests from southern Mexico through Central America to northwestern South America. Its green body, blue-and-yellow side stripes, orange feet, and vivid red eyes make it one of the world’s most recognizable frogs. It is nocturnal, resting on leaves by day and hunting insects after dark.
Its toe pads help it grip smooth leaves and branches in the forest canopy. When threatened, the frog may suddenly reveal its red eyes, orange feet, and bright side stripes. This flash of color can startle a predator long enough for the frog to escape. Despite its dramatic appearance, it is not poisonous like poison dart frogs.
The species also has a translucent third eyelid, or nictitating membrane, which helps protect the eye while allowing some light through. Females lay eggs on leaves overhanging water; when the tadpoles hatch, they drop into the water below.