Many animals in nature have proven to be masters of disguise. This refers to their ability to blend into their surroundings (survival tactic) or their natural characteristics. While the former requires practise and improvement, the latter is a natural advantage of these species. They know how to use it effectively and effortlessly.
The Vietnamese mossy frog is an example of this (Theloderma corticale). The strange creature has green skin with black spots, as well as tubercules and spines visible. All of these characteristics assist it in reducing the risk of being detected by the predator and increasing its chances of hunting the prey. They can easily penetrate a muddy and mossy environment.
Another factor that contributes to these frogs’ mastery of camouflage is their loud voice. They can project their voices up to a distance of 10 to 13 feet (3 to 4 meters). They are extremely difficult to spot in the wild.
The Vietnamese mossy frog is native to Vietnam, where it is most commonly found in the north. They can also be found in southern Asia’s evergreen rainforests and subtropical forests.
At elevations ranging from 2,300 to 3,280 feet, these green frogs prefer to live in flooded caves and on the banks of rocky mountain streams. They’re most active at night.
This species can reach 3.5 inches (7 to 8 centimetres) in length and can live for up to ten years. Surprisingly, males are smaller and thinner than females.
In terms of diet, these frogs hunt large insects such as crickets and cockroaches.
H/T: Smithsonian’s National Zoo
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