4. Red Eye —Why such big red eyes? The purpose of the Red-Eyed Tree Frog’s giant, red eyes is to frighten away predators; this adaptation is called startle coloration. This remarkable creature has become the very symbol of the rainforest habitat it depends on for survival. There are over 1000 different frog species in the Amazon and the condition of their habitat is of great concern. Just when it appeared the rate of deforestation in the Amazon was declining a few years ago, new studies show a huge increase is occurring. Increased demand for beef and other Brazilian agricultural goods is fueling a huge surge in Amazon deforestation as farmers convert rainforest to cattle pastures and crops.