Amphibian · GBIF taxon 2429135
Strawberry Poison-dart Frog
Oophaga pumilioAlso known as Blue Jeans Poison Frog, Strawberry Poison Frog, Blue-jeans Frog
Strawberry poison-dart frogs are famous for their dazzling color variations, ranging from the classic red-bodied, blue-legged "blue jeans" morph to solid green, yellow, or spotted patterns. Females exhibit extraordinary parental care, carrying newly hatched tadpoles on their backs up into the forest canopy to deposit them individually into water-filled bromeliads. To sustain her offspring, the mother returns periodically to feed each tadpole unfertilized, nutrient-rich eggs.
DiurnalToxicColorful
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Formicid ants
- Oribatid mites
- Tiny beetles
Predators
- Night-hunting spiders
- Birds
- Swamp snakes
ThreatsHabitat loss, deforestation, and the illegal pet trade
HabitatsHumid lowland forests, premontane forests, and shaded plantations
Life span5 to 10 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyDendrobatidae
- SpeciesOophaga pumilio
Native
Interaction riskHigh
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is high
- Skin secretions contain toxic alkaloids; never handle these frogs and wash hands immediately if accidental contact occurs.
Responsible observation
- Listen for Calls: Males produce a loud, metallic, insect-like chirping sound from low perches to defend territory.
- Watch the Leaf Litter: Scan the forest floor during daylight hours, especially after rain when they are most active.
- Do Not Touch: Keep a respectful distance to protect both your skin and the frog's highly sensitive, permeable skin.
Close Relative (c) Matt Felperin, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Matt Felperin · cc-by
Highly Toxic Relative (c) Brian Gratwicke, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
Image unavailableClose Relative Close Relative
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