Wandolleck's white-lipped tree frog facts for kids

Wandolleck's white-lipped tree frog (Litoria albolabris) is a type of tree frog that lives in Papua New Guinea. Scientists have only found this frog in the West Sepik Province, which is on the northern coast of the island. It's known for its scientific name, Litoria albolabris.

Discovering Wandolleck's Tree Frog

This special frog was first described by a scientist named Wandolleck in 1911. That's why it's called "Wandolleck's" white-lipped tree frog! For a long time, it was known as Hyla albolabris, but later, in 1971, another scientist named Tyler changed its scientific name to Litoria albolabris. This shows how scientists sometimes update names as they learn more about animals.

Where Does This Frog Live?

Wandolleck's white-lipped tree frog has only been seen in one specific area: the West Sepik Province in Papua New Guinea. This area is known for its lush rainforests and warm, wet climate, which is perfect for frogs. Finding a species in only one small area makes it very unique and sometimes more vulnerable.

What is a Tree Frog?

Tree frogs are amazing amphibians that spend most of their lives in trees or other tall plants. They have special adaptations that help them climb and live high up.

How Tree Frogs Climb

Tree frogs have sticky pads on their toes. These pads help them grip onto leaves, branches, and even smooth surfaces like glass. They can climb very well, which helps them find food and stay safe from predators on the ground.

What Tree Frogs Eat

Most tree frogs are carnivores, meaning they eat other animals. They usually hunt insects like flies, mosquitoes, and beetles. They wait patiently for their prey to come close, then quickly snatch it with their long, sticky tongues.

Life Cycle of a Tree Frog

Like all frogs, tree frogs go through a fascinating life cycle called metamorphosis.

From Egg to Tadpole

Female frogs lay their eggs, often in water or on leaves near water. These eggs hatch into tiny creatures called tadpoles. Tadpoles live in water and breathe with gills, just like fish. They usually eat algae and other plant matter.

Growing into a Froglet

As tadpoles grow, they start to change. They develop back legs first, then front legs. Their tails begin to shrink, and their gills are replaced by lungs, allowing them to breathe air. At this stage, they are called froglets.

Becoming an Adult Frog

Finally, the froglet's tail disappears completely, and it becomes an adult frog. The adult frog is ready to leave the water and live on land, often in trees. It will then be able to reproduce and start the cycle all over again.