Why Does the Red-Eyed Tree Frog Have Three Eyelids?
Covering the
red-eyed tree frog’s iconic eyes are special eyelids, called nictitating membranes. When the frog’s eyes are closed, the eyelids help it blend in with its leafy environment.
See more of Costa Rica's charismatic wildlife in
Untamed from Nat Geo Wild. Follow filmmaker Filipe DeAndrade and his two best friends as they travel throughout Costa Rica in search of the most diverse, iconic and unexpected animal species the country has to offer.
These frogs' vivid red eyes are used to startle predators.
While sleeping, their nictitating membrane conceals their eyes in a brilliant way.
They are found in tropical lowlands in Central & South America.
When disturbed, they reveal their colors as a threat.
Frogs are an indicator species. An abundance of frogs means a healthy eco-system.
