What does Christopher Columbus have in common with poison dart frogs?
During our visit to the Bocas del Toro archepeligo off the Carribian coast of Panama last fall, we visited Isla Colon. We learned that this island as well as nearby Isla Cristobal were named after Christopher Columbus who explored this area during his fourth and final voyage to the new world just over 500 years ago! Lured by the calm and safe anchorage of the bay, he spent some time among these islands while servicing his ships.
Surely, he must have shared a similar kind of fascination as we do today with these unique colorful frogs. Probably only previously familiar with green, grey, or other relatively drab colored anurans, we can only imagine the awe that he and his crew must have felt when first sighting these noisy but tiny living jewels. Ironically, he never found the riches of gold he sought after in this area and moved on.
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Moonrise on Isla Colon as seen from Isla Caranero our first night.
You never know what unusual sights you will encounter behind the next tree. |
Unfortunately, land that has high commercial value such as this beach front property is being cleared away as quickly as someone sees its dollar value. Sadly, the photos of the frogs above were taken in habitat just a short distance from this location.
We trust that government and the local inhabitants of this and neighboring islands will begin to manage and protect their precious resources...from its beautiful beaches to the tiniest living jewels.
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| Poison Dart Frogs by Black Jungle Terrarium Supply featuring Exotic Tropical Plants & Natural Decor Suitable for Keeping Amphibians in Rainforest Terrarium & Vivarium Habitats |
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