Despite its name, it isn’t limited to dense forests—it’s a flexible species that thrives in both moist woodlands and drier, open habitats. This adaptability has helped it remain one of the more common and widespread members of its group. Its body is usually a vibrant green, sometimes with lighter or mottled markings, making it almost invisible against fresh leaves. But in other habitats, it can also appear in shades of brown, showing off its ability to blend into different environments.

While many treefrogs stick to forests, this species is equally at home in savannas and farmlands, as long as there’s water nearby for breeding. Its large toe pads are excellent climbing tools, allowing it to grip twigs, branches, and even tall grasses, making it a versatile little acrobat. Its eyes are especially expressive—large, round, and often golden—giving it an almost “curious” expression that makes it stand out among other small frogs.

Breeding season is when the Niger forest treefrog becomes especially noticeable. Males gather near pools, ponds, or temporary rain puddles and produce a loud, metallic “clinking” call that carries far into the night. These calls attract females and also establish territories among competing males. Eggs are laid in nests near water, and once the tadpoles hatch, they wriggle into the pool or puddle to begin their aquatic stage of life. This reliance on seasonal rains ties the species closely to Africa’s weather patterns, and after heavy downpours, their choruses can be one of the most recognizable sounds of the night.

At night, when many other creatures grow quiet, their metallic clinks create a rhythmic forest soundtrack, like nature’s own percussion band. They are also incredibly nimble—able to leap impressively between twigs or grasses using their long legs. And because of their adaptability, they’re often one of the first frogs you’ll encounter if you spend time outdoors in their range.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Cameroon

2013

Central Af. Rep.

2013

Congo-Brazzaville

2013

DR Congo (Kinshasa)

2013

Equatorial Guinea

2013

Gabon

2013

Nigeria

2013