Adam's Blogroll: click through to the author's blog
This is an except of a story that ran in the February 2015 issue of Association of Zoos and Aquariums monthly magazine, Connect. Looking for amphibious citizen science projects? Look no further! SciStarter has some lined up for you right here. … Continue reading
The post Make a Difference by Counting Croaks appeared first on PLOS Blogs Network.
Posted by in amphibians, animals, citizen science, environment, frogs, FrogWatch USA
We share Earth with millions of amazing plants and animals. Whether we’re relaxing in a hot spring like a Japanese macaque, or catching a glimpse of a rare bird, our exposure to Nature’s diversity enriches our lives and makes us … Continue reading
The post Earth Day 2015: Celebrating Our Awe Inspiring World appeared first on PLOS Blogs Network.
While humans may be the only ones with a day dedicated to celebrating romantic love, rest assured that the semblance of ‘love’ is alive and well in the animal kingdom too. While ‘love’ in this context may not hold the … Continue reading
The post Valentine’s Day Couples in the Animal Kingdom appeared first on PLOS Blogs Network.
Posted by in Aggregators, color change, dumpling squid, extra-pair, frogs, mating, moth, reindeer, squid, steller jay, valentine's day
Pleurodema thaul © 2014 Danté Fenolio / http://www.anotheca.com
“You’ve got something on your butt. . .my eyes!”
WORST PICK UP LINE EVER, but amazing group of frogs.
The genus Pleurodema contains 15 species and is within the family Leptodactylidae and subfamily Leiuperinae. These so-called four-eyed frogs live in South America and possess a pair of inguinal poison glands that resemble eyes.
What is the purpose of having poison “eyes” on your bum? First of all, why not? I would do it if I could. Seriously…..
Pleurodema thaul © 2014 Danté Fenolio / http://www.anotheca.com
More importantly, we look to the behavior to answer this question. When the animal is threatened it raises its rear (which then appears like the head with eyes and whatnot!) and if the predator attacks it will get a taste of some poison. The damage from the attack will be mitigated and as we all know it is easier to deal with a bite to your hindquarters than the face.
Check out these frogs calling below:
“Meet the…” is a collaboration between The Finch & Pea and Nature Afield to bring Nature’s amazing creatures into your home.
Posted by in amphibians, Curiosities of Nature, frogs, meet the