Sardinian Tree Frog

Hyla sarda primarily inhabits moist, wooded areas but can also be found in gardens, vineyards, and near bodies of freshwater such as streams and ponds, where it breeds. The frog's coloration provides excellent camouflage among leaves and vegetation, aiding in its protection against predators. They are nocturnal, spending the day hidden under leaves or in crevices, emerging at night to feed and mate.

The diet of the Sardinian Tree Frog consists mainly of small invertebrates, including insects and their larvae, spiders, and worms. Its hunting strategy involves waiting motionlessly for prey to come within range before striking quickly with its sticky tongue.

Reproduction occurs in the spring, when males call to attract females to breeding sites in stagnant or slow-moving waters. After mating, females lay hundreds of eggs in clusters attached to underwater vegetation. The tadpoles hatch and undergo metamorphosis, transforming into adult frogs within a few months. The reproductive cycle is closely tied to the availability of suitable aquatic habitats for egg laying and tadpole development.

The Sardinian Tree Frog is considered to be of Least Concern by the IUCN Red List, with a stable population across its native range. However, it faces threats from habitat loss due to agricultural expansion, pollution, and climate change, which may impact its breeding sites and food sources. Conservation efforts for Hyla sarda focus on habitat preservation, including the protection of wetlands and wooded areas, to ensure the continued survival of this species. The Sardinian Tree Frog is an important part of the island ecosystems, contributing to the control of insect populations and serving as a bioindicator of environmental health.