Species Spotlight: Red-eyed Tree Frog

Introduction of the Species

The Red-eyed Tree Frog is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic animals, and for good reason. It is bright, graphic, and almost absurdly photogenic. It looks like it was designed specifically to sell people on the rainforest.

Physical Description

This frog has vivid red eyes, a bright green body, blue and yellow flank markings, and orange toes. It is a color study with legs.

Native Habitat

It favors humid tropical forest and vegetation near ponds, wetlands, and other breeding areas. In Costa Rica it is one of the classic amphibian subjects for photographers, especially in lush lowland environments.

Where They Are Found in Central and South America

The Red-eyed Tree Frog ranges through parts of Central America, including Costa Rica and Panama, and into adjacent areas farther south.

Food and Eating Habits

It feeds mainly on insects such as flies, moths, and crickets, and will occasionally take other small prey.

Known Lifespan

Wild lifespan is commonly given at around 5 years, with longer lives possible in managed care.

Join Us in Costa Rica

If you have ever wanted to photograph one of the true symbols of the rainforest, this is it. The Red-eyed Tree Frog alone is enough to make many photographers want to come to Costa Rica. The good news is that our Costa Rica photo workshop is built to help you photograph much more than the postcard version. We help you create stronger, cleaner, more intentional frog images in the field.