The froglets were emerging from the wetland around the same time.  Although Leptodactylus melanonotus was a couple weeks ahead, L. poecilochilus, Smilisca baudinii, and Hypopachus variolosus emerged very close to one another, and these three differ markedly in their morphology and, presumably, feeding behavior.  The co-generic species are obviously much more similar to one another than to the others, and could be foraging on similar prey or in similar habitat.  Is there a reason for this anecdotally observed pattern? Are the co-generic species emerging at different times to avoid competition? 

This Porthidium is the third venomous snake in Palo Verde.  The first one we found I accidently ran over with a rented car.  It didn’t die in vain though, as Charles took it back to the museum in Kansas.

A fantastically colorful wetland bird, the purple gallinule was skittish and quiet.  It prefers roasting in the cattail (Typha) and would squeeze into a small area within the cattail, keep totally silent and watch as I walked by, making it difficult to photograph them.  Most instances when I did see them, it was only their white rump as the quickly flew away.

A Northern Jacana flies passed.  In flight, the jacanas vocalize almost constantly, even when potential predators (like myself) are around.  It always seemed odd that the birds were so conspicuous.

Leptodactylus melanonotus’ common name above refers to the small spike on the medial edge of the front legs of males – kind of like a nuptial pad, except sharper – and the build up of a foamy substance the frogs create when laying eggs by kicking around the surface of the water. 

The Brown Vinesnake was aggressive and pretty.  Although it did manage to bite me once while handling it, it was a fairly slow snake and holding it just behind the head immobilized it.  It was so agressive, that it began biting sticks and leaves that crossed it’s path in the tree while we held it for photographs.  Here, it strikes at my camera…