Tracy KarplusViews:
“The Andean region of Colombia is often described as one of the most biodiverse corners of our planet. Its rugged mountains, shifting climates, and patchwork of ecosystems create a home for an astonishing variety of species—many of them still unknown to science. The Supatá Golden Poison Frog (Andinobates supata) is one of those discoveries, a small jewel of the Eastern Andes that reminds us how much remains hidden in these forests. Yet the same landscapes that give rise to such life are increasingly under pressure.
This photograph captures a telling moment in the natural history of the Supatá Golden Poison Frog. On the frog’s back, a male carries two tadpoles—tiny lives depending on him to find a safe place to grow. But their journey is an uncertain one. The species survives only in a very small area, and much of its forest habitat has been cleared or broken into fragments by cattle ranching. What was once continuous forest has become scattered patches, leaving the frog with fewer and fewer places to thrive. To make matters worse, its vivid colors, so striking in the wild, have made it a target for the illegal pet trade, especially in European markets.
Today, Andinobates supatá is listed as Critically Endangered (CR) by the IUCN. Protecting and restoring its habitat, while cracking down on wildlife trafficking, are urgent steps if this species is to have a future. Its survival depends on swift and determined action.
Read the original species description here.” –– Giovanni Chaves Portilla
We extend our sincere thanks to Giovanni Chaves Portilla for sharing this incredible image and introduction to the Supatá Golden Poison Frog. His work highlights not only the beauty of this rare species but also the urgent need to protect its fragile habitat. Parental care in amphibians—like the male frog carrying tadpoles on his back—is a fascinating reminder of the diverse and remarkable strategies animals use to ensure the next generation survives.
Connect with Giovanni and see more of his photographs on Instagram, @zihita.
