New frog species found in New York City
A tree frog sits on a branch in Owings, Maryland, June 8, 2005.
When scientists are trying to identify new animal species, they usually travel to remote areas. But one critter appears to be more street smart than the others. Scientists recently identified a new species of frog residing in New York City, a study found.
"When I first heard these frogs calling, it was so different, " the lead study author, Jeremy Feinberg of Rutgers University, told BBC News. "I knew something was very off."
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The frog was found on Staten Island, "hiding in plain sight," the Associated Press reported. The species closely resembles the southern leopard frog, leading scientists to confuse the two for a long time.
A UCLA researcher told the New York Times that the study is significant because it shows that even New York City can be home to unique species. "That shows the importance of urban areas in terms of conservation and biodiversity.”
Feinberg now has the honor of giving the frog species a name. He told the Times that he's not taking the decision lightly. "I have to balance the politics with the naming.”