Why Do Coqui Only Sing In Puerto Rico: Unraveling A Unique Amphibian Mystery

Is the coquí exclusive to Puerto Rico, or can it be found elsewhere? Eleutherodactylus coqui, commonly known as the Common Coqui, is a diminutive frog species primarily native to the islands of Puerto Rico, Vieques, and Culebra. Its distinctive name “Coqui” is derived from the distinct nighttime call, resembling a repetitive “ko-kee,” emitted by male individuals of this species. While the Common Coqui is most notably associated with these Caribbean islands, it’s worth exploring whether this unique frog can also be found in other regions.

The coquí frog, scientifically known as Eleutherodactylus coqui, is primarily native to the lush forests of Puerto Rico. However, due to human intervention, these amphibians have been introduced to various other locations beyond their natural habitat. One notable example is the U.S. Virgin Islands, where coquí frogs have established a relatively harmonious presence alongside the local ecosystem. This expansion of their range has sparked discussions about the potential impacts of this introduction on both the coquí population and the native species of these newly inhabited areas.