Poison Dart Frogs

Poison dart frogs are some of the most colorful animals on Earth. They live in the warm rainforests of Central and South America. These little frogs can be bright red, blue, yellow, or green. Their amazing colors warn other animals to stay away because their skin is poisonous.

Warning Colors

The bright colors of poison dart frogs send a clear message. Predators know that eating one could make them very sick. Even touching some of these frogs can be dangerous. Their poison comes from the insects they eat, like ants and mites. Frogs raised in zoos are not poisonous because they eat different food.

Why the Name?

People named these frogs after an old tradition in South America. Some native hunters used the frog's poison to make darts for hunting. Only a few kinds of poison dart frogs were used this way. Most poison dart frogs are harmless to humans if left alone. They are very small, often less than an inch and a half long.

Fun Facts

• The golden poison frog is one of the most toxic animals in the world.
• Male poison dart frogs carry tadpoles on their backs to safe pools of water.
• There are over 170 different kinds of poison dart frogs.

Did You Know?

Scientists are studying the poison from these frogs to help make new medicines for people. Some of the chemicals could help with pain.