Adult: Species description based on Savage (2002). Dorsal: Dorsal coloration is variable. Individuals may be golden, greenish or dull brown. Most individuals have at least some darker markings on the dorsum. The dorsolateral folds are typically lined by black on the outer edges. A black face mask is typically present. The upper lip is lined in white. Concealed surfaces: The concealed surfaces are mostly bright red, including the armpit, groin, as well as the lower and rear surfaces of the thighs. Eye: The iris is green. Extremities: Feet are extensively webbed.
Breeding season: Breeding occurs most during the early parts of the rainy season, but may occur year-round (Zweifel 1964). Egg: The eggs are black and cream (Savage 2002). Eggs are laid in large, round gelatinous masses in the vegetation of shallow bodies of water (Zweifel 1964, Savage 2002). Tadpole: The tadpole is oval-shaped with a moderately long tail that ends quite bluntly (Savage 2002). Tadpoles are brown, with some dark pigmentation on the tail (Savage 2002). Metamorph juvenile: Juveniles are usually green (Savage 2002).
Habitat: Montane forest between 1500-2700 m. Ecology: Lithobates vibicarius are commonly encountered near ponds in dense forest as well as in more open areas (Savage 2002). Call: A low, harsh trill (Zweifel 1964, Greding 1972, Savage 2002). Males do not have a vocal sac (Savage 2002). Type locality: Rancho Redondo, on the divide of the Irazú range (Costa Rica)