Pacific Treefrog (Pacific chorus frog)
These little frogs are only about two inches in length. They have smooth skin that can be brown, green or almost black, because they change color when the air temperature or humidity changes. This color changing allows them to blend in to their surroundings, which helps them avoid being eaten by predators. They have little toe pads on the ends of their fingers and toes, and their toes are webbed as well. Their call is the familiar “ribbit” sound.
Habitat: Pacific treefrogs can be found in a variety of habitats. They like deserts, meadows, forested areas, and agricultural areas, but typically, they live near a water source such as marshes, ponds or lakes. Because Idaho BLM lands are so diverse, you may see tree frogs in any number of locations throughout Idaho.
Food: They love to eat beetles, flies, spiders, and ants, as well as other small insects.
Fun Facts: Pacific Treefrogs have special “sticky pads” on their feet that help them climb. Even though these frogs are called “tree frogs,” they don’t really spend much of their time in trees. That’s why some people refer to them as “Pacific Chorus Frogs,” because the word “tree” doesn’t really have much to do with where they live.
Listen to these frogs croak by visiting this U.S. Forest Service website.
A male Pacific treefrog
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