Hemiphractus – Horned treefrogs

One of the most fascinating and visually striking groups in the frog world. Native to Central and South America, particularly in humid forests of countries like Ecuador, Colombia, and Peru, these frogs are part of the Hemiphractidae family, which is famous for its unusual reproductive strategies. Hemiphractus frogs are mostly nocturnal and arboreal, meaning they’re active at night and live in trees, though some species may also be found closer to the forest floor. Their rough, leaf-like skin and earthy coloration help them blend in perfectly with moss, bark, and fallen leaves, making them masters of camouflage. At a glance, one might mistake them for dead leaves or forest debris, which is exactly what helps them avoid predators in their dense, jungle habitats.

One of the coolest things about horned treefrogs is their reproductive behavior. Like many of their Hemiphractidae relatives, females of Hemiphractus carry their eggs on their backs, often in a specialized pouch. Instead of laying eggs in water, they keep them safe with them at all times. Some species even go a step further—by the time the eggs hatch, the young emerge as tiny froglets rather than tadpoles, skipping the aquatic stage altogether. This adaptation allows them to reproduce in forest environments where standing water may be limited or unreliable. It also helps protect their young from aquatic predators and harsh environmental conditions. The female’s commitment to carrying her developing offspring makes her a kind of backpacking mom, hauling her tiny future froglets around until they’re ready to face the world on their own.