Amazon Milk Frog

The Amazon Milk Frog (Trachycephalus resinifictrix), also known as the Mission Golden-Eyed Tree Frog, is a large, arboreal amphibian native to South America. It belongs to the family Hylidae, which includes various tree frog species known for their climbing abilities and preference for humid environments.

Key Characteristics:

Size: Adults typically grow between 2.5 to 4 inches in length.

Coloration: They have a striking appearance with a bluish-gray body and irregular dark brown or black markings. Their skin has a slightly bumpy texture, adding to their unique look.

Eyes: Their large, golden-colored eyes with horizontal pupils give them excellent night vision, as they are nocturnal creatures.

Secretions: When stressed, they release a sticky, milky-white secretion from their skin, which is believed to have defensive properties against predators. This trait gives them the name "Milk Frog."

Lifespan: In captivity, they can live for 8 to 10 years, sometimes even longer with proper care.

Amazon Milk Frogs are known for their relatively docile nature compared to other amphibians. While they are not ideal for frequent handling due to their delicate skin, they make fascinating display pets because of their unique behaviors and striking coloration.

Natural Habitat and Geographic Range

Geographic Range:

Amazon Milk Frogs are native to the Amazon Basin, which includes regions in:

Brazil

Colombia

Ecuador

Peru

Venezuela

Bolivia

They inhabit warm, tropical rainforest environments, where humidity levels remain consistently high year-round.

Habitat Preferences:

Arboreal Lifestyle: These frogs spend most of their lives in the trees, using their large toe pads to cling to branches and navigate dense foliage.

Water Proximity: They are often found near slow-moving bodies of water, such as ponds, swamps, and oxbow lakes, where they breed and lay their eggs.

Tree Hollows and Bromeliads: In the wild, Amazon Milk Frogs prefer to live in tree hollows that collect rainwater. These natural pools provide them with shelter and breeding sites.

Nocturnal Activity: Since they are nocturnal, they hide during the day and become active at night, hunting for insects and other small prey.

Understanding their natural habitat helps owners replicate the right conditions in captivity, ensuring their frogs remain healthy and comfortable.