Jewel of the forests …

A twin-spotted tree frog spotted in Chattogram's Hazarikhil Wildlife Sanctuary rests motionless on a damp branch, its emerald skin glistening under the forest light. Native to the humid forests of northeastern India, Bangladesh, and northern Myanmar, this striking amphibian spends most of its life in the treetops, emerging at night to hunt insects. During the day, it shelters among leaves and tree hollows near streams. Recognised by its vivid green body, yellow underside, and twin dark flank spots, the frog's webbed limbs allow it to glide between branches like a tiny parachutist. Listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, the species plays a vital ecological role -- controlling insect populations and linking forest and freshwater ecosystems through its life cycle.

PHOTO: SHAMEEM HASAN