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Explore the splendid poison frog in detail, study its behavior, prepare your shots.

Where to observe and photograph the splendid poison frog in the wild

Learn where and when to spot the splendid poison frog in the wild, how to identify the species based on distinctive features, and what natural environments it inhabits. The WildlifePhotographer app offers tailored photography tips that reflect the splendid poison frog’s behavior, helping you capture better wildlife images. Explore the full species profile for key information including description, habitat, active periods, and approach techniques.

Splendid Poison Frog

Scientific name: Oophaga speciosa


Splendid Poison Frog

IUCN Status: Endangered

Family: DENDROBATIDAE

Group: Amphibians

Sensitivity to human approach: Suspicious

Minimum approach distance: 3 m

Reproduction period: May to August

Incubation: N/A

Births: June to September


Habitat:
Tropical rainforests, marshy areas

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Splendid Poison Frog, Oophaga speciosa, is a tree-dwelling frog species known for its vibrant and toxic skin. Native to the humid rainforests of Central America, it is distinguished by its bright colors ranging from vivid red to deep blue, a warning to predators of its toxicity. This frog typically measures between 2 and 4 cm in length. It primarily feeds on small insects and arthropods. Males are territorial and use vocal calls to attract females and deter rivals. Reproduction involves parental care, with eggs laid on the forest floor and tadpoles transported on the adults' backs to water bodies.

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

Photography tips:
To photograph the Splendid Poison Frog, choose cloudy days to avoid reflections on its shiny skin. Use a macro lens to capture the details of its textured skin and vibrant colors. Approach slowly to avoid startling it, and maintain a distance of at least 3 m to respect its space. Natural light is ideal, but a diffused flash can be used to highlight its bright colors. Be patient and wait for it to settle on a leaf or branch for a natural background.

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