Where is the Kottigehar dancing frog found?
It is endemic to the Western Ghats of India, living in fast-flowing streams and Myristica swamps at 300–500 m elevation.
Why is it called the “dancing” frog?
Males perform an elaborate “foot-flagging” display—tapping, stretching, and showing off white vocal sacs—to attract females and fend off rivals.
How do Kottigehar dancing frogs reproduce?
After mating, the female digs a nest underwater with her hind legs, lays eggs in the streambed, then covers them with sand and gravel.
What makes this species so vulnerable?
Despite being Critically Endangered and on the EDGE list, it's not legally protected in India. It faces habitat loss, water pollution, and even skeletal deformities.
About the Authors
Femi Ezhuthupallickal Benny
Femi is a PhD student at University College London (UCL), working on the ecology and behavior of Asian giant hornets. Passionate about insects, especially wasps, she loves fieldwork in underexplored places, studying how insects interact with their environment and discovering new species while at it!
