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Common Name : Skipper Frog     -       Scientific Name : Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis       -       Other Name : Indian Skipper Frog, Skittering Frog, Uthpathana Mediya (S)
Namada Wila
07/20/2013
Namada Wila
07/20/2013
Namada Wila
07/20/2013

This is a species that is always found in water or at the edge of water bodies and is widely distributed from Arabia to South Asia and South-east Asia. The conservation status of this species is regarded as Least Concerned (IUCN Red List).

This is a very common species of frog that can be seen throughout the country and ascends the hills up about 1800 meters. I have observed this species in all the water bodies including small rock pools in the jungles, village wells, and paddy fields as well as in large tanks in the dry and wet zones of the country. It can be often seen floating in the water with their eyes above the water surface.

In Wilpattu I have observed this species at Panikkar Villu, Tala Wila, Namada Wila, Ochchappu Kallu Tank, Mila Wewa, Mahapatessa, Kudapatessa, Vilanda Wala, Demata Wila Borupan Wila, Mila Villu etc.

These are the small frogs that skip in quick succession on the surface of the water when you approach a body of water. These frogs form an important source of food to many species of water birds. I have observed the larger herons as well as a Common Green Shank feed on this species at Kudapatessa.