BEHAVIOR AND COLOR CHANGES OF TREE FROGS 53 



BEHAVIOR 



It may be assumed that in general tree frogs share about 

 the same measure of intelligence as other members of the am- 

 phibian tribe. But even this would not place them high in 

 that rank; for at the most favorable estimate amphibia are not 

 credited with a large measure of mentality. But it may be 

 doubted whether in general tree frogs may even claim so high 

 a degree of intelligence, judged by their behavior, as many 

 of their kin. It may be the peculiarity of habitat has induced 

 a degree of stupidity in relation to danger from enemies, or 

 possibly the color adaptations of certain species may have 

 had something to do in this matter; but certain it is that they 

 show less wariness or alertness than do the frogs whose habitat 

 is upon the ground. In some other respects, however, they 

 show a degree of cleverness which is not noticeable in the latter. 

 For example, the facility with which they may leap and capture 

 prey is quite remarkable. Again, the accuracy with which 

 they seem to gauge distance is also striking. So that alto- 

 gether it may be assumed that in rank of intelligence they 

 are fairly comparable with their fellows of other genera and 

 species. 



The features of behavior which have had more particular 

 attention are three, or perhaps four, namely: food-taking; light 

 reactions; temperature reactions; hibernation. Since the last 

 is largely a question of temperature it might perhaps be con- 

 sidered under that head. However, my observations on this 

 feature are comparatively few and may as well be disposed 

 of in this connection. 



FOOD TAKING 



In this Hyla behaves quite similarly to others of its kind. 

 It seems not to notice any except moving objects. A spider 

 may remain quietly in a given part of the cage for hours or 

 days undisturbed. If it assume an active attitude it is almost 

 certain to be taken very promptly. It is thus with any prey. 

 The insects most commonly supplied were flies, small beetles, 

 grasshoppers, spiders, etc. On one occasion a small wasp was 

 released in the cage and at once began to buzz about or run 

 up the sides of the cage actively. It was but a few moments 

 ere a specimen leaped eagerly and captured the prey. Then 

 a most interesting performance took place. No sooner was the 



