New At The Zoo: The Red-Eye Tree Frog

ROYAL OAK (CBS Detroit) – It's something cool at the zoo for kids (and adults) into in slimy things and science.

For the first time, the Detroit Zoo's National Amphibian Conservation Center has red-eyed tree frog tadpoles on display.

This exhibit gives visitors a look at the species in different stages of metamorphosis. A clutch of about 25 eggs was laid on January 30 and the tadpoles will soon start to emerge as adolescents.

"The next four to six weeks will offer an excellent opportunity for visitors to see the fascinating metamorphosis of the frogs at various stages of their life cycle," said Curator of Amphibians Marcy Sieggreen.

Most of the 75 amphibian species at the National Amphibian Conservation Center are bred in carefully controlled environments with the creation of the offspring happening in secret.  This breeding event allows for a unique and limited chance for guests to see the evolving tadpoles up close.

"Amphibian metamorphosis is one of the most fascinating processes in the animal kingdom. These little creatures start without limbs or lungs, living solely under water, and gradually change to breathe air and hop around on land. It's exciting to see the frogs in the various stages of this development," said Sieggreen.

Native to the Central American rainforest, the red-eyed tree frog (Agalychnis callidryas) has a vibrant green body with blue and yellow stripes on its sides with bulging red eyes. Although the frog is a relatively small amphibian, about 2-3 inches long, the red-eyed tree frog can jump 20 times its own length.

The Detroit Zoo is located at the intersection of 10 Mile Road and Woodward Avenue, just off I-696, in Royal Oak. It's open 362 days a year.  Through November to March, the Detroit Zoo is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.  It is also open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April through Labor Day and the day after Labor Day through October.   Admission is $14 for adults 15 to 61, $12 for senior citizens 62 and older, $9 for children 2 to 14  and free for children under 2 are free.

For more information, call (248) 541-5717 or visit www.detroitzoo.org.