Smilisca puma (Cope, 1885)

Common Name and Classification

Smilisca puma, commonly known as the Nicaragua cross-banded tree frog or the tawny smilisca, is a species of tree frog belonging to the family Hylidae.

Distribution

This species occurs in the Caribbean lowlands of Costa Rica and adjacent parts of Nicaragua, up to around 520 meters (1,710 feet) above sea level.

Natural Habitat

Its natural habitats are tropical moist lowland forests.

Breeding Habitat

It breeds in small, shallow temporary pools and ponds, including those located in heavily disturbed habitats like pastures.

Mating Behavior

During the rainy season, males produce mating calls from shallow water and low bushes.

Threats

This species is threatened by habitat loss and degradation driven by both small-scale and large-scale agriculture, as well as logging.