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Green and black poison dart frogs are named due to their coloration, in addition to their natural toxin being a clever hunting tactic. The Choco People of western Colombia coat the tips of blow darts in this species’ poisonous secretions. It’s strong enough to take down small birds and mammals.
These frogs are quite small. On average, they’re only the size of an American quarter (0.75 to 1.5 inches in length). Unlike animals whose coloration and patterns act as camouflage, these features on a poison dart frog act as an aposematic signal. Aposematism is when an animal sends a signal to potential predators, warning them that they’re toxic. Poison dart frog toxins are strong enough to cause complications if touched or ingested.
Green and black poison dart frogs can be found from Bolivia to southeastern Brazil, and from Costa Rica to Nicaragua. They rely on rainforests to stay healthy.
All of the resident green and black poison dart frogs at ZooMontana are related, although they arrived at different times! Relish was the first, arriving at the Zoo in 2022 from the Adventure Aquarium in Camden, New Jersey. In 2023, the rest of these frogs made their way to Billings from ABQ BioPark in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
It may be hard to tell these guys apart, but there is a sign next to their habitat with pictures and info to help you identify who is who.
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