Extreme Heat Notice: Due to high heat & humidity, the Childrenās Zoo may close early, and some animals may be indoors or off exhibit for their safety. Please stay hydrated and take breaks in shaded or indoor areas. Amphibians
Barred Tiger Salamander
COMMON NAME: Barred Tiger Salamander
SCIENTIFIC NAME: Ambystoma mavortium
Barred Tiger Salamanders are the largest land-dwelling salamander in North America. Like all amphibians they have soft, semipermeable skin which is kept moist by a coating of mucus. They spend the first portion of their lives under water, hatching from eggs and undergoing metamorphosis.
Fun Fact: In 1994, after a campaign initiated by the students at OK Elementary School, The Barred Tiger Salamander was officially designated the Kansas State Amphibian.
LINKS TO NEWS FOOTAGE:
Whiteās Tree Frog
COMMON NAME: Whiteās Tree Frog
SCIENTIFIC NAME: Ranoidea caerulea
TYPE: Amphibian
DIET: Insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates
GROUP NAME: Army
LIFESPAN: 10ā15 years in captivity
SIZE: 3ā5 inches (7.5ā12.5 cm)
WEIGHT: 0.5ā1.5 ounces
STATUS: Least Concern
THREATS: Habitat destruction, pollution, pet trade
HABITAT: Rainforests, woodlands, and urban areas in Australia and New Guinea
BEHAVIOR: Nocturnal and arboreal; known for being calm, hardy, and excellent climbers thanks to sticky toe pads
FUN FACT: Whiteās Tree Frogs have a waxy coating on their skin that helps them retain moisture and survive in dry environments!
Smooth-Sided Toad
COMMON NAME: Smooth-Sided Toad
SCIENTIFIC NAME: Rhaebo guttatus
TYPE: Amphibian
DIET: Carnivore ā feeds on insects, spiders, worms, and other small invertebrates
GROUP NAME: Knot (though typically solitary)
LIFESPAN: 10ā15 years in captivity
SIZE: 4ā7 inches (10ā18 cm)
WEIGHT: Up to 2 lbs (900 g)
STATUS: Least Concern
THREATS: Habitat loss and pollution in parts of its range
HABITAT: Tropical rainforests of northern South America, often near streams and rivers
BEHAVIOR: Nocturnal and primarily terrestrial. When threatened, it secretes toxins from large glands behind its eyes to deter predators.
FUN FACT: Despite its name, the Smooth-Sided Toad has a bony ridge on its head and produces one of the most potent defensive toxins of any South American toad!
