Poison Dart Frogs of Costa Rica

Poison dart frogs (also called poison arrow frogs), unlike red-eyed tree frogs, stay mainly on the forest ground, except when breeding. Species range from the size of an adult thumbnail to around two inches. They look absolutely beautiful with their many bright colors and patterns, but beware! They are among the most poisonous animals in the world. On the bright side, of the more than 175 species, only a few are very dangerous to humans. (In captivity they lose their toxicity.) Their brilliant colors and designs help ward off predators, as does the smelly, bitter-tasting poison that exudes from tiny pores in their skin. Indigenous groups such as the Emberá use this poison on the end of their darts or arrows when hunting small game, thus the name. This poison is also being studied for medical purposes. Researchers are analyzing the poisonous secretions for possible new medications and treatments. Just think—maybe one day these little frogs could save your life, or at least free you from pain!