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Poison frogs tap-dance to rouse prey and make them easier to catch

Different species of poison frogs tap their toes when feeding to create vibrations that cause flies to move closer to them

By Chen Ly

15 February 2024

Dyeing poison frogs tap their toes the most when standing on leaves in their natural habitat

Sarah Westrick

Poison frogs have a curious habit of tapping their toes, and scientists may have finally uncovered why – to create vibrations that flush out unsuspecting prey.

Colourful and highly toxic poison frogs dwell in warm, moist habitats, such as rainforests and swamps, in Central and South America.

One common behaviour of these animals is toe tapping. Previous studies have proposed it may be linked to feeding for the yellow-striped poison frog (Dendrobates truncatus).

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