frog
A close up of a crowned tree frog. Credit: Rafael Steinlesberger/Instagram

Micro Photog Asks: ‘Which Frog is the Main Character?’

In an extremely stunning collection of photographs, Austrian photographer Rafael Steinlesberger highlights a selection of his favorite frog images that he took during a trip to Costa Rica

Of course, Steinlesberger's answer is the crowned tree frog. He explained that he spotted the tiny, brown frog as he was heading back after an "exhausting but successful night walk." 

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"I spotted this stunning crowned tree frog perched up on a piece of deadwood," he wrote in the caption. "A perfect opportunity to round off the night!"

Steinlesberger explained that the species was named after their iconic bony protrusions on top of their head, which resemble a crown, especially when you look at them from the front. 

In response to questions, Steinlesberger said that none of the frogs he photographed were in danger, especially to the light. 

"The light is diffused and at low power, nothing compared to real lightning or the sun. There is no evidence of any damage through flashlight on frogs eyes at all, they don't seem to consider it a threat in any way," he said. "In fact strong constant light is way worse for them due to the heat it produces, drying out their eyes!"

He added that the crowned tree frog, or triprion spinosus, was a "wishlist species" for him and he was lucky enough to find one not once but three times.