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Newly discovered: a frog that looks like Kermit

Newly discovered frog species looks a lot like Kermit

The newest discovered species of frog looks remarkably familiar.

Brian Kubicki, who has been studying amphibians in Costa Rica for the past 17 years, described the new species, Hyalinobatrachium dianae, in the journal Zootaxa.

In layman’s terms, the description is a simple one: it looks like Kermit the Frog.

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From its bright, lime green skin to its big white bug eyes with dark centred pupils, the similarities are uncanny. Unlike Kermit, however, the Hyalinobatrachium dianae is classified as a glass frog, for its semi-translucent belly through which you can see its organs.

Scientists believe the Hyalinobatrachium dianae went undiscovered for so long because its call is very unique — sounding almost like a metallic whistle, making it easily mistakable for an insect noise — and was found in an area that has not been extensively studied.

Unfortunately, the frog’s whistled call is not to the tune of “Rainbow Connection.”

Kubicki doesn’t mind the Kermit comparison. At least his frog is getting attention.

“I think it is great that this species is getting so much attention around the world. Hopefully this will help increase the awareness of the incredible amphibians found in Costa Rica and the need to continue studying them and conserve their vital habitats,” he told CBS News.

“Costa Rica stands alone with its density of amphibian species; within a mere 51,000 square kilometres of national territory, 201 species of amphibians have been documented.”

To date, scientists have identified 14 types of glass frogs in Costa Rica.

Miss Piggy has yet to respond to CNN’s request for comment on the new species’ resemblance to the love of her life.