Palawan Splash Frog

Palawan Splash Frog Staurois nubilus photo by Jojo De Peralta
     The Staurois nubilus (Mocquard, 1890) or Palawan Splash Frog, also called Palawan Rock Frog, is an endemic amphibian listed as Least Concern in view of its wide distribution and large population in Palawan. It can be found along clear and flowing streams and rivers in secondary and primary forests up to small, fast-flowing streams on mountain slopes. It is known to lay eggs and undergo larval development in clear water.

Palawan Splash Frog Staurois nubilus photo by Jojo De Peralta
Palawan Splash Frog

     There is a continuing decline in the extent and quality of its habitat due to agricultural activities, but the Staurois nubilus is one of the most common frogs in Palawan, and the impact on this species is not yet visible. The species is abundant in all major mountain ranges in Palawan and is very common around rivers and streams where it occurs.

Palawan Splash Frog Staurois nubilus photo by Jojo De Peralta
Palawan Splash Frog
     This frog’s genus is an ancient member of the true frog family Ranidae and is sometimes known as the foot-flagging frog. It refers to their unusual behavior of waving their hind legs and feet. This species is largely active during the day. At night, it can be found perched on overhanging leaves and twigs around the streams and rivers or on top of rocks alongside the water and boulders lining the banks.

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