Frogs in Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania's Playful Frogs - Reptile Reader (2024)

Are you aware that Pennsylvania is a haven for our slimy, hopping friends? Yes, you read that right – the Keystone State is home to a diverse mix of amphibians, including an impressive array of frog species.

In fact, Pennsylvania boasts a whopping 17 different species of frogs, each with their unique characteristics and quirks. Talk about a froggy paradise!

So, put on your rain boots and grab a flashlight, because we’re about to embark on an exciting journey to discover these amazing creatures that grace the state with their presence.

#	Name	Details	Image
1	American Bullfrog(Lithobates catesbeianus)	Size: 3.5-6 inches (9-15 cm) Color & Pattern: Green to brown with dark spots and patterns Habitat: Ponds, lakes, marshes, slow-moving streams Vocalizations: Deep, low-pitched calls by males during breeding
2	Eastern American Toad(Anaxyrus americanus)	Size: 2-4.5 inches (5-11.4 cm) Color & Pattern: Varied brown, gray, or green with darker spots or patches Habitat: Forests, fields, suburban areas Vocalizations: High-pitched trilling call by males during breeding
3	Fowler’s Toad(Anaxyrus fowleri)	Size: 2-3 inches (5-7.6 cm) Color & Pattern: Gray, brown or green with dark spots and a pale stripe down the back Habitat: Woodland areas, sandy coastal plains, grasslands, urban areas Vocalizations: Short, nasal-like call by males during breeding
4	Green Frog(Lithobates clamitans)	Size: 2.3-3.5 inches (5.8-8.9 cm) Color & Pattern: Dark green or olive green with small dark spots Habitat: Ponds, marshes, lakeshores, slow-moving streams Vocalizations: Deep, bass-like calls by males during breeding
5	Wood Frog(Rana sylvatica)	Size: 1.4-3.7 inches (3.5-7.6 cm) Color & Pattern: Tan or brown with dark mask around eyes and back leg stripe Habitat: Woodlands, bogs, swamps Vocalizations: Males make a duck-like quacking sound during breeding
6	Pickerel Frog(Lithobates palustris)	Size: 1.5-3 inches (3.8-7.6 cm) Color & Pattern: Greenish-brown with parallel rows of dark square spots Habitat: Woodlands, marshes, grassy wetlands, near streams and ponds Vocalizations: Low-pitched snore-like calls by males during breeding
7	Northern Leopard Frog(Rana pipiens)	Size: 2.0-4.3 inches (5.1-11 cm) Color & Pattern: Green or brown with dark spots circled by a lighter border Habitat: Marshes, swamps, grasslands, wetlands Vocalizations: Snore-like call by males during breeding
8	Atlantic Coast Leopard Frog(Lithobates kauffeldi)	Size: 2-3.5 inches (5-8.9 cm) Color & Pattern: Green, brown, or gray with dark spots and light borders Habitat: Marshes, wet meadows, swamps, coastal areas Vocalizations: Guttural chuckling or snoring sound by males during breeding
9	Northern Spring Peeper(Pseudacris crucifer)	Size: 0.75-1.5 inches (1.9-3.8 cm) Color & Pattern: Light brown, tan, or gray with an X-shaped marking on the back Habitat: Woodlands, marshes, wet meadows Vocalizations: High-pitched ascending peep by males during breeding
10	Eastern Spadefoot Toad(Scaphiopus holbrookii)	Size: 1.8-3 inches (4.5-7.6 cm) Color & Pattern: Brown, gray, or green with dark markings, light stripes on back or sides Habitat: Pine forests, sandhills, mixed woodlands, farmlands Vocalizations: Short, explosive call or snore-like sound
11	Eastern Cricket Frog(Acris crepitans)	Size: 0.6-1.6 inches (1.5-4 cm) Color & Pattern: Varied green, brown, or gray with darker spots or patches Habitat: Near water bodies in grasslands, wetlands, or woodlands Vocalizations: Chirping or clicking call by males during breeding
12	Gray Tree Frog(Hyla versicolor)	Size: 1.1-2 inches (3-5 cm) Color & Pattern: Gray, brown, or green with irregular markings, white spots under eyes Habitat: Deciduous forests, shrubby areas, swamps, meadows Vocalizations: Males produce musical trills during breeding
13	Cope’s Gray Tree Frog(Hyla chrysoscelis)	Size: 1.0-2.0 inches (2.5-5.1 cm) Color & Pattern: Gray, green or brown with darker spots or patches, white underside Habitat: Forests, swamps, wooded areas Vocalizations: Short, rapid trills by males during breeding season
14	Upland Chorus Frog(Pseudacris feriarum)	Size: 0.9-1.4 inches (2.3-3.5 cm) Color & Pattern: Green or brown with darker stripes or spots Habitat: Woodlands, swamps, grasslands, marshes Vocalizations: Short, ascending trill by males during breeding
15	New Jersey Chorus Frog(Pseudacris kalmi)	Size: 0.8-1.5 inches (2-3.8 cm) Color & Pattern: Greenish-brown with bold dark stripes on sides and back Habitat: Grasslands, meadows, wetlands Vocalizations: High-pitched, short trilling call by males during breeding
16	Western Chorus Frog(Pseudacris triseriata)	Size: 0.7-1.5 inches (1.7-3.7 cm) Color & Pattern: Brown or gray with three dark lines on their back Habitat: Grassy wetlands, meadows, urban environments Vocalizations: Rapid, high-pitched “peep-peep” calls by males during breeding
17	Mountain Chorus Frog(Pseudacris brachyphona)	Size: 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm) Color & Pattern: Light brown or green, dark brown markings forming a backward “Y” or “X” shape Habitat: Moist woodlands, along streams, near seasonal ponds Vocalizations: Short, melodic trill by males during breeding season

17 Frog Species You Can Find in Pennsylvania

Get ready to dive deep into the lives of 17 incredible frog species that call Pennsylvania their home, showcasing their unique adaptations and remarkable behaviors.

1. American Bullfrog

Immerse yourself in the world of the American Bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus), a striking amphibian with a size ranging from 3.5 to 6 inches (9-15 cm). Adorned in a rich palette of green to brown, they exhibit dark spots and patterns which serve as excellent camouflage within their habitat. These aquatic creatures can leap and swim with grace and strength, due to their powerful legs.

Dwelling in the eastern and central United States, Canada, Mexico, and various regions around the world, they call ponds, lakes, marshes, and slow-moving streams their home. They satiate their hunger with a diverse diet of fish, crustaceans, insects, small mammals, birds, and other amphibians. The American Bullfrog is even known to be cannibalistic, predating on native species in introduced areas.

During breeding season, male Bullfrogs exclaim deep, low-pitched calls to attract mates, resulting in them laying their eggs in flat surfaces on the water for successful reproduction. Despite being a significant predator, their conservation status remains of least concern and they continue to thrive, showcasing their impressive adaptability. Delve deeper into the world of this fascinating amphibian, and uncover more about its unique quirks and captivating existence.

2. Eastern American Toad

Venture through the forests, fields, and suburban areas of Eastern North America, and you may stumble upon the humble Eastern American Toad (Anaxyrus americanus). Spanning anywhere between 2-4.5 inches, these small creatures boast an alluring array of brown, gray, or green camouflage, adorned with darker spots or patches to further blend with their surroundings.

These nocturnal toads have a voracious appetite for insects, spiders, snails, and small invertebrates that keep the ecosystem balanced, all while providing essential insect control. When it comes time to reproduce, they lay their eggs attached to vegetation in freshwater habitats, with males emitting a high-pitched trilling call to woo their partners.

The Eastern American Toad is not your average amphibian, however. Sporting parotoid glands that secrete toxin, and the ability to inflate themselves as defense mechanisms, their fascinating adaptations help them thrive in their environment. Currently of least conservation concern, these small yet mighty creatures certainly have their place in nature’s ever-turning wheel.

3. Fowler’s Toad

Anaxyrus fowleri, commonly known as Fowler’s Toad, is a petite, nocturnal amphibian measuring only 2-3 inches in length. Boasting an earthy color palette of gray, brown, or green, this well-camouflaged toad sports dark spots and a pale stripe down its back, seamlessly blending into its woodland, coastal, and grassland habitats throughout Eastern United States and Southeastern Canada.

These adaptive, solitary creatures feast on insects, spiders, worms, and small invertebrates, employing their parotoid glands to secrete toxin as a brilliant defense mechanism. By digging burrows to stay cool and moist, Fowler’s Toad can adapt to various environments, even urban areas. Their survival strategy has paid off, with their conservation status ranked as “Least Concern.”

The males, distinguished by their nasal-like call, perform a short vocalization to court females during breeding season. Once the pair breeds in shallow freshwater, the female carefully lays her eggs in strands, attaching them to surrounding vegetation. With their intriguing behavioral patterns and stealthy appearance, Fowler’s Toad is undoubtedly an endearing and vital member of nature’s diverse network.

4. Green Frog

Behold the vibrant Lithobates clamitans, better known to us earthlings as the Green Frog! Its striking, dark green or olive green hue, accented by tiny spots, easily captivates the eye – a stunning inhabitant of the ponds, marshes, lakeshores, and slow-moving streams across Eastern United States and Canada. This exquisite amphibian masters the art of camouflage with a size ranging from 2.3 to 3.5 inches (5.8-8.9cm).

As a natural-born gourmet, the Green Frog feasts on a delectable menu of aquatic insects, snails, crustaceans, and small fishes. Cunning and creative, it seeks out shallow freshwater habitats for breeding, laying clusters of eggs as a part of its ingenious reproduction cycle. And, oh, how they serenade! The males’ deep bass-like calls enchant during the breeding season, as their bright yellow vocal sacs visually delight.

Frogs that are designed to jump and swim with their powerful hind legs, these phenomenal creatures are highly aquatic by nature. Perhaps the most fascinating facts linger in their ability to magically regenerate lost limbs, forming an extraordinary evolutionary edge. Fear not for their future, as they are classified with a conservation status of “Least Concern.” Our enchanting Green Frog will continue to leap and swim, astonishing us for years to come.

5. Wood Frog

Meet the captivating Rana sylvatica, commonly known as the Wood Frog, a forest-dwelling amphibian with an exquisite flair for blending into its surroundings. Sporting a fashionable tan or brown, adorned with a dark mask around its eyes, and a sleek stripe on its back legs, this petite creature ranges from 1.4-3.7 inches in size (3.5-7.6 cm). Its range spans North America, from the bustling wilds of Alaska to New England, with southern settlers in northern Georgia.

A gourmand of small delicacies, the Wood Frog feasts on a varied menu consisting of insects, spiders, worms, slugs, and snails. Its breeding rituals take place in the serene freshwater habitats it calls home, laying its precious eggs in clusters that find attachment on submerged vegetation. The debonair males serenade potential mates with duck-like quacking during these amorous encounters.

The true pièce de résistance of this incredible species is their unparalleled ability to freeze and thaw, permitting survival in harsh, cold conditions. Amidst this extraordinary talent, the Wood Frog is not considered at risk with a conservation status deemed of least concern. The fascinating life of the Wood Frog unfolds with eggs hatching within mere weeks, showcasing their resilient nature and true wonder.

6. Pickerel Frog

Introducing the captivating Lithobates palustris, commonly known as the Pickerel Frog, a charming amphibian adorned with greenish-brown hues and striking parallel rows of dark square spots. Measuring 1.5-3 inches in size, this agile wonder thrives in the woodlands, marshes, and grassy wetlands of eastern North America, from Canada to the Eastern U.S., often found near streams and ponds.

An omnivorous creature, the Pickerel Frog dines on an array of insects, spiders, and small invertebrates. During reproduction, these remarkable frogs can be heard emitting low-pitched, snore-like calls as they breed in freshwater habitats and delicately lay their egg masses on surrounding vegetation. Boasting incredible adaptations, this frog not only produces skin secretions toxic to some predators, but is also a strong jumper.

Though currently of least concern in terms of their conservation status, the Pickerel Frog boasts a fascinating, and somewhat daunting, fact. Their toxins are harmful to other amphibians, which may lead them to devour smaller frog species. Despite this, the Lithobates palustris remains an intriguing and captivating creature of North America’s wetlands.

7. Northern Leopard Frog

These captivating creatures are perfectly suited for life in marshes, swamps, grasslands, and wetlands, stretching from Alaska to New Mexico in North America. Their partially webbed hind feet allow them to swim gracefully, while their long, powerful legs support impressive jumping abilities.

With a main diet of insects, spiders, small crustaceans, and other invertebrates, these voracious eaters keep their habitats in Pennsylvania lively. During breeding season, these frogs settle in shallow, well-vegetated freshwater habitats, and females lay eggs in clusters attached to vegetation. To attract a mate, male frogs serenade their companions with a unique, snore-like vocalization.

Remarkably, the Northern Leopard Frog is capable of surviving being frozen, an unparalleled adaptation contributing to their classification as “Least Concern” in conservation statuses. However, it is worth noting that habitat loss may lead to a decline in future populations. Overall, these fascinating frogs continue to enchant us with their beauty, resilient nature, and captivating behaviors.

8. Atlantic Coast Leopard Frog

Hidden in the mysterious marshlands of the Eastern United States resides the enchanting Atlantic Coast Leopard Frog (Lithobates kauffeldi). Adorned in a majestic cloak of green, brown, or gray, these fascinating amphibians are embellished with dark spots and light borders, making them masters of camouflage. With a modest size of 2-3.5 inches, they frolic gracefully between wet meadows, swamps, and coastal areas stretching from Connecticut to North Carolina.

Agile hunters with a penchant for insects, spiders, and small invertebrates, these frogs wield their well-developed legs for astounding leaps and nimble swimming. In pursuit of love, the males serenade their mates with peculiar guttural chuckling or snoring sounds, a unique characteristic of this species. The lovers rendezvous in freshwater habitats where they lay their eggs in temporary or permanent water sources, ensuring the survival of their lineage.

The Atlantic Coast Leopard Frog is undeniably a resilient and adaptable species, boasting the impressive ability to endure even the harsh conditions of salt marshes. Surprisingly, this remarkable creature was only discovered in 2012, yet its conservation status remains unevaluated. As we continue to learn more about this elusive jewel of the marshlands, we must ensure its protection for future generations to cherish.

9. Northern Spring Peeper

Boasting an enchanting color palette of light brown, tan, or gray, Pseudacris crucifer’s back proudly displays an unmistakable X-shaped marking that gives it an air of mystique. Spanning a petite 0.75 to 1.5 inches, this charming amphibian resides from the vast extents of Canada all the way down to Georgia.

In the hunt for its sustenance, the Northern Spring Peeper deftly seeks out small insects, spiders, and ants — notwithstanding its pint-sized stature. This talented little jumper does not shy away from the water, as it breeds and lays its eggs singly or in clusters within freshwater habitats. With the arrival of the breeding season, males serenade their partners with high-pitched ascending peeps, signifying their readiness to mate.

Such a captivating creature, the Northern Spring Peeper boasts the ability to change its color and survives due to its unique adaptation of a skin respirometer. Not only an intriguing find, but also a vital indicator of ecosystem health, this species is fortunately classified as being of “Least Concern.”

10. Eastern Spadefoot Toad

Found loitering in pine forests, sandhills, and mixed woodlands across the eastern United States, these little amphibians boast an impressive wardrobe, with colors ranging from brown, gray, or green, and adorned with dark markings and light stripes on their back or sides. Spanning a modest 1.8-3 inches, they’re quite the tiny critters.

Don’t let their size deceive you, though – they are fierce hunters. Chowing down on insects, spiders, and small invertebrates, Eastern Spadefoot Toads are vital to their ecosystem. Their keen senses might also pick up a short, explosive call or a snore-like sound, which are their vocalizations.

No ordinary toad, this species possesses spade-like structures on their hind feet for burrowing, allowing them to survive long periods of drought. Remarkably, they can rapidly breed after heavy rainfall, laying their eggs in clusters in temporary ponds or pools. With a conservation status of “Least Concern,” Eastern Spadefoot Toads have adapted well to their environments and continue to fascinate with their unique quirks.

11. Eastern Cricket Frog

Discover the Eastern Cricket Frog (Acris crepitans), a petite amphibian that gracefully leaps and swims in the realms of the eastern United States. With a varied palette of greens, browns, and grays, adorned with enigmatic dark spots or patches, these agile creatures measure a mere 0.6 to 1.6 inches, seamlessly blending into their habitat near water bodies in grasslands, wetlands, or woodlands.

Prepare to be allured by the lyrical serenade of chirping or clicking calls by males during breeding, as they beckon to mate and lay eggs in small, gelatinous masses, in shallow waters. These diminutive delights feed on insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates, leaping into action with incredible agility that allows them to jump up to 60 times their body length!

Blessed with unique adaptations that facilitate powerful jumps and superior swimming prowess, Eastern Cricket Frogs escape predators with astonishing ease. Thankfully, the conservation status of these spellbinding inhabitants remains of least concern. Dive into the magical world of Acris crepitans, and be captivated by their enchanting existence amidst nature’s lush tapestries.

12. Gray Tree Frog

Hidden within the deciduous forests, swamps, and meadows of eastern North America lies the elusive Hyla versicolor, a remarkably adaptable frog commonly known as the Gray Tree Frog. Gracefully climbing through their habitats with their sticky toe pads, these frogs exhibit an artistic mastery of disguise, changing from gray to brown or green, adorned with irregular markings and mysterious white spots concealing their bright eyes.

Spanning a petite 1.1-2 inches in size, Gray Tree Frogs feast daintily on insects, spiders, and small invertebrates. When it’s time to reproduce, they seek out temporary and permanent freshwater habitats, laying their precious eggs on floating plants. As males serenade their partners with musical trills, their unique adaptations ensure their survival amongst both the branches and the underbrush.

Braving harsh winters and freeze-tolerant, these adaptable creatures prove that beauty and nature’s artistry flourish even in the depths of adversity. Their skill and resilience has thankfully kept them far from the brink of extinction, a delightful testament to the magnificent wonders of the natural world.

13. Cope’s Gray Tree Frog

Perched high among the trees in the eastern United States and southeastern Canada, the enchanting Cope’s Gray Tree Frog thrives (Hyla chrysoscelis). With a petite frame of 1.0-2.0 inches (2.5-5.1cm), this shy creature can blend seamlessly into its surroundings, changing colors from gray, green, or brown with darker accents, while sporting a pristine white underside.

Feasting on insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates, the Cope’s Gray Tree Frog builds its life amid dense forests, swamps, and other wooded areas. As for reproduction, they embrace their love affair with water, breeding in freshwater habitats and laying their eggs on the surfaces of various bodies of water. This delicate creature takes part in a melodious symphony, with males contributing short, rapid trills during the breeding season.

Possessing an array of astounding adaptations, these frogs residing in Pennsylvania can not only change color, but also cling to surfaces with ease and display an exceptional freeze-tolerance. In fact, they are known to survive even when partially frozen. With a conservation status of “least concern,” the enigmatic Cope’s Gray Tree Frog perseveres, occasionally venturing to the ground, but more often gracing the treetops with its whimsical charm.

14. Upland Chorus Frog

Measuring only 0.9-1.4 inches, these vibrant little creatures boast an array of green or brown hues adorned with darker stripes or spots, perfect for blending into their diverse habitats that range from woodlands to marshes across the Eastern United States.

These energetic jumpers have an appetite for insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates. When it comes to love, the Upland Chorus Frog exhibits true romanticism, as the males sing a short, ascending trill during breeding time in shallow freshwater habitats. Here, they lay their eggs attached to floating vegetation, creating a cozy cradle for their offspring.

Never backing down from a challenge, this frog’s adaptations are nothing short of remarkable. Their freeze-tolerant nature enables them to survive temporary water bodies, and they even have the intriguing ability to hybridize with other chorus frog species. With a conservation status of “Least Concern,” the Upland Chorus Frog remains a thriving and captivating member of the amphibian world.

15. New Jersey Chorus Frog

Introducing the enigmatic New Jersey Chorus Frog (Pseudacris kalmi), a rare and elusive amphibian that roams the grasslands, meadows, and wetlands of the Mid-Atlantic states. Measuring a mere 0.8 to 1.5 inches, this diminutive greenish-brown beauty is uniquely adorned with bold, dark stripes that run down its sides and back, providing perfect camouflage in its grassy habitat.

Stealthily feasting on a diet of insects, spiders, and small invertebrates, this secretive species has adapted splendidly to its surroundings with its slender build, perfect for hiding among the vegetation. When it comes time to reproduce, the Chorus Frog serenades the evening air with high-pitched, short trilling calls performed by the males. The grand finale of this performance is the laying of eggs in small clusters, securely attached to aquatic plants in freshwater habitats.

While this enigmatic amphibian may be difficult to observe due to its secretive nature, there is no denying its fascinating charm. Despite not being evaluated by the IUCN and having no official conservation status, the Pseudacris kalmi stands as an intriguing mystery and an extraordinary resident of the New Jersey landscape.

16. Western Chorus Frog

Meet the tiny, unassuming Pseudacris triseriata, more commonly known as the Western Chorus Frog. Adorned in hues of brown or gray, these petite amphibians range from a mere 0.7-1.5 inches, with three striking dark lines adorning their backs. Making their homes across North America, from Canada to the Central and Eastern United States, they are often found in grassy wetlands, meadows, and even urban environments.

Adaptive and resourceful, the Western Chorus Frog feasts on a smorgasbord of small invertebrates including insects and spiders. When it’s time to reproduce, these frogs flock to temporary ponds, cleverly laying their gelatinous egg clusters to minimize vulnerability to predators. Males serenade potential mates with rapid, high-pitched “peep-peep” calls, ensuring the continuation of their species.

Miraculously, these little creatures that call Pennsylvania their home possess a natural “antifreeze,” protecting their delicate tissues from damage during hibernation. Though classified as a species of “Least Concern,” the Western Chorus Frog’s fascinating adaptations and intriguing characteristics make it a delight to behold, a testament to the wonders of the natural world.

17. Mountain Chorus Frog

This tiny wonder measures a mere 1-1.5 inches and boasts a captivating color palette of light brown or green adorned with dark brown markings, creating a unique backward “Y” or “X” pattern.

Nestled in the moist woodlands and along streams of the Appalachian region, these agile amphibians feast on small insects, spiders, and other invertebrates.

Basking in shallow, temporary ponds or flooded areas, their melodic trill resonates during the breeding season, attracting mates under the symphony of love.

Remarkably freeze-tolerant, they can partially turn to ice and still thaw out unharmed! With skin capable of water absorption and a conservation status of least concern, these fascinating creatures continue to dazzle Pennsylvania with their harmonious existence.

Nearby States:

• Frogs in Rhode Island
• Frogs in Vermont

Final Words

In summary, Pennsylvania boasts a remarkable array of 17 diverse frog species, displaying a kaleidoscope of colors, patterns, and unique adaptations. Embark on a fascinating journey through their habitats, appreciating their distinctive vocalizations, and uncover the secret lives of these magnificent amphibians that grace the state of Pennsylvania.