How amphibians turn June’s jungle nights into a love-fuelled chorus of croaks, chirps, and colour
What happens in Costa Rica’s jungles when the rain starts to fall?
As soon as the rainy season begins in June, the forests of Costa Rica explode with amphibian life.
The air becomes thick with moisture and sound. Every night, a wild amphibian orchestra begins—a full-blown frog chorus echoing through the trees, underbrush, and along the banks of every stream and pond. Dozens of species emerge from the shadows to take advantage of the wet conditions. They’re not just here to sing—they’re here to mate, eat, and defend territory. It’s primal, it’s noisy, and it’s spectacular.
This phenomenon is especially vivid in primary rainforests where water pools in tree hollows, leaves glisten with raindrops, and every square metre seems alive with movement. Frogs aren’t just participants in the night—they’re the headliners.
Why do frogs dominate the soundscape during rainy nights?
Frogs call during the rainy season to attract mates and protect their turf.
Male frogs are the noisiest—each species producing a distinct call meant to lure females and warn rival males to back off. These sounds bounce off wet leaves and thick jungle air, creating a wall of noise that can be hypnotic or deafening, depending on how close you are. Some species even amplify their calls using their throat sacs like built-in megaphones.
Rainy nights provide optimal conditions:
- Humidity keeps their skin moist and breathable.
- Rain pools offer safe nurseries for eggs and tadpoles.
- Nighttime reduces exposure to predators like birds and snakes.
What species of frogs are most active in Costa Rica during the rainy season?
From thumb-sized tree climbers to loud-mouthed ground dwellers, Costa Rica’s frogs come in a remarkable variety. Here are some of the stars of the season:
🐸 Red-Eyed Tree Frog (Agalychnis callidryas)
Possibly Costa Rica’s most iconic amphibian, this frog is instantly recognisable by its bright red eyes, lime green body, and blue-striped sides. Found sleeping on the undersides of leaves during the day, it comes alive at night, making impressive leaps between branches in search of mates.
🐸 Strawberry Poison Dart Frog (Oophaga pumilio)
A tiny yet bold frog, it’s only about 2 cm long but bursts with colour. Most commonly red with blue legs (nicknamed “blue jeans frog”), it varies across regions. Active during the day as well, it’s toxic to predators, making it fearless in its territory.
🐸 Hourglass Tree Frog (Dendropsophus ebraccatus)
Named for the hourglass-shaped marking on its back, this delicate species emits a high-pitched buzz. Males often perch on leaves over water, ready to leap into action if another suitor intrudes.
🐸 Glass Frogs (Centrolenidae family)
Ethereal and small, these frogs have translucent skin on their bellies—you can see their internal organs! They’re often found in high-altitude forests, and their soft, tinkling calls make them a hidden gem of the frog chorus.
🐸 Smoky Jungle Frog (Leptodactylus savagei)
This heavyweight is among the largest frogs in the region. Brown with darker spots and a deep booming croak, it’s more commonly heard than seen. It defends itself with a scream and a toxic skin secretion.
🐸 Tink Frogs (Diasporus spp.)
Tiny frogs with an outsized voice, these secretive singers emit a metallic “tink” that cuts through the night. They’re often found in leaf litter or low vegetation, and despite their size, they’re surprisingly territorial.
🐸 Masked Tree Frog (Smilisca phaeota)
With its bandit-like eye stripe and golden eyes, this frog prefers perching on branches above ponds or rivers. It’s known for laying eggs in temporary puddles created by the rains.
Where are the best places to witness frog nightlife?
You’ll find frogs nearly everywhere in Costa Rica during rainy season, but some areas offer especially rewarding experiences:
- Monteverde Cloud Forest – A magical spot for night hikes and spotting elusive species like glass frogs.
- Tortuguero National Park – A coastal rainforest teeming with red-eyed tree frogs and colourful poison dart frogs.
- Osa Peninsula – One of the world’s most biodiverse regions, offering encounters with rare and endemic frogs.
- La Fortuna and Arenal – Easily accessible locations for night tours and beginner-friendly frog watching.
- Sarapiquí and La Selva Biological Station – Excellent for guided tours with herpetologists who can identify every croak.
Look for locations offering guided nocturnal hikes—these dramatically increase your chance of seeing frogs up close without disturbing them or risking getting lost in the dark.
Why are frogs important to the ecosystem?
Frogs are environmental barometers and crucial to the food chain.
These amphibians play a vital role by:
- Eating insects – including disease-spreading mosquitoes.
- Feeding predators – from snakes and birds to mammals and even fish.
- Monitoring ecosystem health – since frogs breathe through their skin, they are sensitive to pollutants and temperature changes. Their decline often signals a larger environmental problem.
Frogs are one of the first groups to disappear in declining ecosystems. Their presence is a reassuring sign of a healthy, functioning rainforest.
What should I bring for a night frog tour?
To enjoy a frog-focused jungle night, pack smart and stay respectful.
Recommended items:
- Lightweight waterproof clothing
- Rubber boots for muddy trails
- A headlamp or flashlight with a red filter (to avoid disturbing animals)
- Insect repellent, ideally DEET-free
- A waterproof camera or phone for photos
- Quiet observation skills—frogs will vanish if you stomp or shout
Stick to marked paths and follow your guide’s lead. Never touch the frogs—it can harm both them and you.
Is it safe to travel during the rainy season?
Yes! Travel in June is safe and often more intimate than peak dry season.
While there’s more rainfall, mornings are often dry, and wildlife activity is booming. Roads might be muddy in remote areas, but with a 4WD and flexible plans, it’s easy to explore. Fewer tourists mean quieter trails and richer encounters, especially with frogs.
FAQ
When is frog season in Costa Rica?
Frog activity peaks from June to August, though some species are visible year-round.
Can I see frogs during the day?
Yes—some species like the strawberry poison dart frog are diurnal, but most are active at night.
Are all frogs poisonous?
No. Only a few, such as poison dart frogs, are toxic. Most are harmless when left alone.
What do frog calls sound like?
Everything from whistles and chirps to tinks and deep croaks. Each species has a unique vocal signature. Are night tours worth it?
Absolutely. With a guide and the right gear, a frog tour can be one of the most unforgettable experiences in Costa Rica.
