Few people know about the rustic tree frog (Pithecopus rusticus), a small amphibian that lives exclusively in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. Even though it is one of the most endangered species, it has just witnessed an unprecedented breakthrough: the birth of 17 chicks in Parque das Aves, in Foz do Iguaçu (PR). More than just a significant number of offspring, the birth shows that science-based management can make a concrete contribution to the survival of threatened species. The result represents an important step towards the formation of a safe population of the species, that is, a strategy used to reduce the risk of extinction of animals with few individuals in the wild. The objective is to form a genetically viable population, capable of contributing in the future to conservation actions in its natural environment, always following scientific and technical criteria.
Rare species from the Atlantic Forest records important advance in conservation
Few people know about the rustic tree frog (Pithecopus rusticus), a small amphibian that lives exclusively in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. Even though it is one of the most endangered species, it has just witnessed an...
Disclosure. Characteristic of the Atlantic Forest, the rustic tree frog exists only in this biome and is extremely sensitive to environmental changes. In recent surveys in its habitat, researchers found only five individuals, revealing the fragility of the population and the need for integrated actions to guarantee its future. "This result represents much more than a birth. It is a demonstration that years of planning, research and collaboration between institutions can generate concrete advances for extremely threatened species. Each offspring strengthens our hope of building a safer future for the wood frog", highlights the technical director of Parque das Aves, Roberta Manacero. Science applied to conservation Reproductive success is the result of technical work that brings together professionals from different areas, responsible for handling the animals, monitoring embryonic development and monitoring each phase of the offspring's growth. Thus, work under human care allows us to expand knowledge about the species and support new conservation strategies.
Disclosure. Furthermore, Parque das Aves participates in field research alongside biologist Elaine Lucas, responsible for the discovery of the rustic tree frog. Expeditions contribute to better understanding the distribution of the species, monitoring populations in naturally occurring environments and gathering important data for long-term actions. "For those who follow this species in nature, knowing that it is reproducing under human care is a reason for hope. Each individual makes a difference to such a small and vulnerable population", highlights Elaine, coordinator of the Rústica Treefrog Project. A joint effort for conservation The work is part of the Rústica Treefrog Project, developed in partnership between Parque das Aves, the São Paulo Zoo, the National Center for Research and Conservation of Reptiles and Amphibians (RAN/ICMBio) and the Federal University of Santa Maria. The initiative is part of the National Action Plan for the Conservation of Endangered Amphibians and Reptiles in the Southern Region of Brazil and demonstrates how collaboration between institutions strengthens the protection of Brazilian biodiversity. About Parque das Aves Parque das Aves, which has a conservation center focused on species from the Atlantic Forest and works to welcome rescued animals, is the most visited attraction in Paraná after the Falls and completed 31 years of operation in 2025. As a private institution, visitors promote the continuity of the attraction's work through visits to the Park, consumption in the restaurants of the Gastronomic Complex (Restaurante Sabores da Floresta, Bistrô da Mata and Café da Praça) and shopping at the souvenir shop.
