Skunk frog facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Skunk frog |
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The skunk frog, officially known as Aromobates nocturnus, is a very rare type of frog that lives only in Trujillo State, Venezuela. It's considered critically endangered, which means it's in great danger of disappearing forever. Scientists haven't seen this frog since it was first described in the early 1990s, making it quite a mystery!
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Meet the Skunk Frog!
What Makes it Special?
The skunk frog gets its name because it can release a smelly liquid from its skin. Don't worry, this liquid isn't harmful, but it smells a bit like a skunk! Unlike its relatives, the poison dart frogs, the skunk frog is much bigger. It can grow up to about 62 millimeters (or 2.4 inches) long.
This frog loves water and spends most of its time swimming or sitting in streams. It is also nocturnal, which means it is most active at night.
Skunk Frog Babies: Life Cycle
When it's time to have babies, the male skunk frog takes on an important job. The eggs are laid on land, and the male frog guards them carefully. After the eggs hatch, tiny tadpoles appear. The male then carries these tadpoles on his back all the way to the water. There, the tadpoles can continue to grow and develop into young frogs.
Where Do Skunk Frogs Live?
Skunk Frog Homes
Skunk frogs live in special places called cloud forests. Their natural habitats are small, cold-water streams found in these misty forests. Cloud forests are unique because they are often covered in clouds, which keeps them cool and wet.
Dangers to Skunk Frogs
Sadly, the skunk frog is facing many threats. One big problem is habitat loss. This happens when people clear parts of the forest for farming, either to grow crops or to raise animals. This takes away the skunk frog's home.
Another danger is a disease called chytridiomycosis. This is a serious fungal infection that can harm and even kill frogs and other amphibians around the world. Scientists are worried that this disease could also affect the skunk frog.
See also
In Spanish: Aromobates nocturnus para niños
