Description

• Smilisca baudinii, commonly called the Mexican tree frog, is a medium-sized tree frog in the family Hylidae. Adults have a broad, somewhat flattened body, large eyes, long hind legs, and expanded adhesive toe discs. Colouration is variable, ranging from grey and brown to greenish tones, often with darker mottling or irregular markings. The skin can change colour to provide camouflage against bark, foliage, and other surfaces.

Range

• Smilisca baudinii has a broad distribution from southern Texas and northern Mexico through much of Mexico and Central America to northern South America. It is widespread in western and southern Mexico, including Guerrero, and is common around Zihuatanejo in suitable habitats.

Habitat

• This adaptable species occupies tropical dry forest, thorn forest, scrub, woodland, grassland, agricultural areas, gardens, and human-modified habitats. Adults shelter in vegetation, tree cavities, beneath bark, rocks, and other protected sites during dry periods and become active during humid weather and the rainy season. Breeding takes place in temporary pools, ponds, ditches, and other shallow bodies of water.

Diet

• Adults are opportunistic insectivores, feeding on a variety of insects and other small arthropods, including beetles, moths, flies, ants, and spiders. Tadpoles are aquatic and feed mainly on algae, plant material, microorganisms, and organic particles.