Rueppel's big-eyed tree frog facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Rueppel's big-eyed tree frog |
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The Rueppel's big-eyed tree frog (Nyctimystes rueppelli) is a special type of tree frog. It lives far away in Indonesia, specifically on the islands of Halmahera and Morotai. These islands are part of a group called the Moluccas. This frog likes to live in forests and wet areas, but not close to the ocean.
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Meet the Rueppel's Big-Eyed Tree Frog
This frog gets its name from its big eyes and because it lives in trees. It was first described by scientists in 1895. Like all tree frogs, it has special pads on its toes that help it climb and stick to surfaces.
What Does This Frog Look Like?
The Rueppel's big-eyed tree frog has some interesting features. Scientists have studied these frogs to learn more about them.
- Male frogs can grow to be about 4.8 centimeters (about 1.9 inches) long.
- Female frogs are a bit smaller, growing to about 4.0 centimeters (about 1.6 inches) long.
When they are alive, these frogs are usually yellow with black marks on their skin. A unique feature is the up-and-down marks you can see on their lower eyelids.
Where Does This Frog Live?
This tree frog is found only in a specific part of Indonesia. It lives on two islands:
- Halmahera
- Morotai
These islands are part of the Moluccas, which are known for their rich wildlife. The frog prefers to live in places like:
- Forests
- Wetlands
It stays away from coastal areas, meaning it lives inland where there is plenty of fresh water and trees.
Why Is This Frog "Vulnerable"?
The Rueppel's big-eyed tree frog is listed as "Vulnerable" by the IUCN. This means that its population is decreasing, and it faces a high risk of becoming endangered in the wild. Protecting its forest and wetland homes is very important to help this unique frog survive.
