Taxonomy
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Amphibia
Order: Anura
Family: Rani dae
Genus: Frog
Species: Rana iberica
Conservation Status of the Species in Portugal and Worldwide
Portugal
World
Features and
Habits
In terms of size, it measures between 3.5 and 6 cm in length. Regarding its most notable characteristics compared to other frogs, this one has a more reddish-brown color. It has slightly rough skin, long hind legs adapted for jumping, and webbed toes suitable for swimming. It is a rather shy species, being mostly nocturnal; however, it is more visible during the day in dense forest areas. It may hibernate in higher altitude areas.
It feeds mainly on insects and arachnids. The tadpoles, on the other hand, feed on algae. Reproduction occurs between March and April. The eggs are laid in a gelatinous mass in shallow, oxygenated water, in streams and ponds. The tadpoles hatch after two weeks and complete metamorphosis in two to three months.
Habitat and Distribution
It is a common amphibian, especially in the north and center of the country, being very rare in the south. This difference in the concentration of this species in the north and south of the country stems from the fact that it prefers habitats in forested and mountainous areas, with rivers, streams or lagoons, something much more present in the north. It is quite sensitive to pollution. Although in Portugal its conservation status is of little concern overall it is vulnerable, this species is only found in Portugal and Spain, and even then in specific locations. Some good places to observe this species are the Gerês, Estrela, Freita and Arestal mountain ranges. So far I have observed and photographed this species in Sever do Vouga, at the Cabreia Waterfall and at the Gresso Waterfall.
All Photographs Taken
