Introduction
Dart frogs, known for their dazzling colours and toxic skin, are equally fascinating in the sounds they produce. These small, terrestrial amphibians are most vocal during the breeding season, and each species has a unique call used primarily by males to attract mates and defend territory. In this guide, you’ll hear the actual calls of over 15 dart frog species, learn why they vocalise, when they do it, and how you can experience this behaviour as a keeper in the UK.
Whether you’re a hobbyist, a breeder, or simply curious, this guide is packed with audio, visuals, and information to deepen your understanding of dart frog communication.
Why Do Dart Frogs Call?
Dart frogs call for three main reasons:
- Mating: Male dart frogs produce distinct calls to attract females. These calls are often repetitive and species-specific, helping females find genetically appropriate mates.
- Territorial Claims: Males will also use calls to warn other males that a space is occupied.
- Aggressive Interactions: In some species, calls can precede or accompany physical confrontations.
Unlike many other frogs, dart frogs do not have vocal sacs that visibly inflate. Their calls are often quiet, buzz-like, and can be missed without a trained ear.
When Do Dart Frogs Call?
Dart frogs are diurnal and most vocal during the day, especially:
- In the morning: After misting or during sunrise.
- In high humidity: Triggered by conditions that simulate the rainy season.
- During breeding periods: Spring to early autumn in captivity.
Calls vary in tone, pitch, and volume depending on the species and environmental conditions.
Species Sound Gallery
Here is a curated gallery of dart frog species with audio recordings and quick facts.
| Species | Common Name | Call Audio | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dendrobates auratus | Green and Black Dart Frog | Listen | Buzzing trill; native to Central America. |
| Dendrobates tinctorius | Dyeing Dart Frog | Listen | Low, soft trill; found in the Guianas. |
| Phyllobates terribilis | Golden Poison Frog | Listen | Fast-paced clicks; among the loudest dart frogs. |
| Oophaga pumilio | Strawberry Poison Frog | Listen | High-pitched chirping; territorial and mating call. |
| Epipedobates anthonyi | Anthony’s Dart Frog | Listen | Buzzing, rhythmic call; Ecuadorian species. |
| Ranitomeya summersi | Summers’ Dart Frog | Listen | Faint trill; small size but active caller. |
| Phyllobates bicolor | Black-legged Dart Frog | Listen | Repeated chirps; highly toxic. |
| Oophaga histrionica | Harlequin Poison Frog | Listen | Rapid clicking; rainforest floor dweller. |
| Ranitomeya imitator | Mimic Poison Frog | Listen | Buzz call; known for parental care. |
| Epipedobates tricolor | Phantasmal Poison Frog | Listen | Sharp trilling; studied for medicinal properties. |
| Dendrobates leucomelas | Yellow-banded Dart Frog | Listen | Strong buzzing call; bold and active. |
| Ranitomeya fantastica | Fantastic Poison Frog | Listen | Soft clicks; striking patterns. |
| Oophaga sylvatica | Diablito Dart Frog | Listen | Rapid clicks; Ecuadorian. |
| Phyllobates vittatus | Golfodulcean Poison Frog | Listen | Trill call; native to Costa Rica. |
| Ranitomeya ventrimaculata | Amazonian Poison Frog | Listen | High buzz; often calls from bromeliads. |
Encouraging Calls in Captivity (UK)
To hear your frogs call more frequently:
- Maintain high humidity (70–100%).
- Provide full-spectrum lighting on a 12-hour cycle.
- Mist twice daily to simulate rain.
- Offer vertical plants and bromeliads to replicate natural perches.
Some species call more often when paired or when rivals are present.
Legal and Ethical Considerations (UK)
In the UK, dart frogs are legal to keep without a license, but:
- Purchase only from DEFRA-compliant, captive-bred sources.
- Avoid wild-caught imports.
- Quarantine new arrivals.
FAQs
Q: Are dart frog calls loud?
A: Most calls are quiet and buzz-like. Only species like Phyllobates terribilis produce clearly audible calls from a few metres away.
Q: Will dart frogs call if kept alone?
A: Males may still call to attract mates or assert territory, but frequency increases with rivals or presence of a female.
Q: Can I hear dart frog calls at night?
A: Rarely. They are mostly diurnal and quiet after lights out.
Q: Can females call?
A: In most species, only males call. Females may occasionally vocalise in defensive or submissive contexts.
Conclusion
Hearing a dart frog call is one of the most rewarding aspects of keeping these incredible animals. From faint buzzes to sharp clicks, each species has its own sonic signature that reflects its evolutionary path. This guide serves as both a resource and a tribute to the hidden voices of the rainforest.
Whether you keep frogs in your home or are simply intrigued by them, now you can hear and appreciate the many voices of dart frogs—all from your desktop, phone, or vivarium.
