Habitat:
Tropical rainforests, swamps, riparian zones

Activity period :
Mainly active at night, generally discreet during the day.

Identification and description:
The Oophagous Slender-legged Treefrog, or Osteocephalus oophagus, is a fascinating species of tree frog primarily found in the humid tropical forests of South America. It is particularly notable for its unique reproductive behavior: females lay their eggs in water-filled tree cavities, and the tadpoles feed on unfertilized eggs that the mother regularly deposits. This feeding strategy, known as oophagy, is rare among amphibians and allows the tadpoles to survive in environments where food is limited. The Oophagous Slender-legged Treefrog is medium-sized, with smooth skin and color patterns that allow it to effectively camouflage in its natural habitat. It plays a crucial role in the ecosystem as an insect predator, helping to regulate invertebrate populations.

Recommended lens:
Macro – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Oophagous Slender-legged Treefrog, it is advisable to use a macro lens to capture the details of its skin and color patterns. Look for it in tropical rainforests, often near water-filled tree cavities. Be patient and discreet, as it is suspicious and can quickly hide. Prefer nighttime hours for observation, as it is active at night. Use soft lighting to avoid scaring it and to highlight its natural colors.