• Animals (Kingdom Animalia)

• Chordates (Phylum Chordata)

• Vertebrates (Subphylum Vertebrata)

• Amphibians (Class Amphibia)

• Frogs and Toads (Order Anura)

• Tree Frogs and Allies (Family Hylidae)

• Cross-banded Tree Frogs (Genus Smilisca)

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The genus Smilisca consists of a group of medium-sized treefrogs in the family Hylidae that are distributed from the southern United States through Mexico and Central America. These frogs are typically found in forests, woodlands, savannas, and areas near ponds and temporary pools, although some species readily adapt to disturbed habitats and human settlements. Smilisca species are characterized by smooth skin, large eyes, and expanded toe pads that allow them to climb vegetation efficiently. Their coloration is usually green, gray, tan, or brown, often with markings that provide camouflage among leaves and tree bark. Eggs are laid in temporary or permanent water bodies where tadpoles develop before metamorphosis. These frogs feed mainly on insects and other small invertebrates.

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The Mexican Treefrog (Smilisca baudinii) is the only species in the genus Smilisca found in Zihuatanejo.