A striking and culturally significant amphibian native to the rainforests of Panama. Known for its vibrant yellow to orange coloration with distinctive black markings, this frog is not only a national symbol of Panama but also an icon of the country’s biodiversity. Its bright coloration serves as a warning to potential predators about its toxicity. Like other members of the genus Atelopus, the Panamanian golden frog produces potent skin toxins that can deter predators and protect the frog from being eaten. This aposematic coloration is a common trait among many toxic amphibians.

These frogs are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day. They are often found near fast-flowing streams in the cloud forests of Panama, particularly in the central and western parts of the country. The Panamanian golden frog’s habitat includes both primary and secondary forests, where it can find the moist, cool environment it needs to thrive.

The breeding season for the Panamanian golden frog typically coincides with the rainy season, which lasts from late May to early November. During this time, males can be heard making their distinctive whistling calls to attract females. Unlike many other frogs, the Panamanian golden frog does not have vocal sacs, so it produces its calls by closing its mouth and forcing air through its nostrils, creating a whistling sound. Males are also known to communicate through a form of semaphore, waving their forelimbs to signal other frogs, a behavior thought to be an adaptation to their noisy stream environments.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Panama

<50

Official estimate

CR

2018

Possibly extinct