description Hairy Frog Overview
A Central African frog (Trichobatrachus robustus) notable for intentionally breaking its own toe bones to produce retractable claws as a defense against predators.
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Hairy Frog ranks #31 of 216 in the Amphibian ranking, behind Yellow-banded Poison Dart Frog, ahead of Pumpkin Toadlet.
Bone claws and hairy breeding males create one of the most famous amphibian defenses.
help Hairy Frog FAQ
Are the hairy frog's claws made from keratin?
No, its defensive claws are sharpened bones rather than keratin structures like a cat's claws. The terminal toe bones break away from small nodules and pierce through the skin when deployed.
Why is Trichobatrachus robustus called the hairy frog?
Breeding males develop hair-like skin filaments along their sides and thighs. These structures contain blood vessels and are thought to increase surface area for oxygen uptake while males guard eggs underwater.
Where does the hairy frog live?
Trichobatrachus robustus inhabits fast-flowing forest streams in parts of Central Africa, including Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Its tadpoles have muscular bodies and mouthparts suited to turbulent water.
Do the hairy frog's bones heal after the claws retract?
Researchers have documented how the bones deploy, but the exact natural retraction and healing process has not been observed in full detail. It is generally inferred that the bones return to position and damaged tissue regenerates after the threat passes.
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