GREEN TREE FROG
Hyla cinerea
DESCRIPTION
The Green Tree Frog (Hyla cinerea) is a small, vibrant amphibian known for its bright green coloration, which helps it blend into its leafy surroundings. Adults typically measure about 2 to 3 inches in length and have smooth skin with a distinctive white or yellow stripe running along their sides. They are primarily arboreal, spending much of their time in trees and shrubs, and are known for their loud, distinctive calls during the breeding season, which can be heard from a distance.
FUN FACTS
- Green Tree Frogs can change their skin color slightly to match their environment, which helps them avoid predators
- | They are also known for their unique mating calls, which can vary in pitch and duration, making them a favorite among frog enthusiasts and researchers
QUICK INFO
Lifespan5-10 years in the wild
Average Weight10-30 g
Average Length5-7.5 cm
Diet TypeInsectivore
Social Structuresolitary, with males calling to attract females during the breeding season
Activity PatternNocturnal
Breeding SeasonSpring to early summer
- Habitat
- These frogs are commonly found in wetlands, swamps, and areas with abundant vegetation. They prefer habitats that provide plenty of cover and access to water for breeding.
- Biomes
- Wetlands, Temperate Forests
- Native Range
- The Green Tree Frog is native to the southeastern United States, ranging from North Carolina to Florida and west to Texas.
- Continent
- North America
- Countries
- United States
- Diet
- Green Tree Frogs primarily feed on insects and other small invertebrates. They are opportunistic feeders, using their long, sticky tongues to catch prey.
- Diet Type
- Insectivore
- Favorite Food
- crickets, moths, and other small insects
- Social Structure
- solitary, with males calling to attract females during the breeding season
- Activity Pattern
- Nocturnal
- Group Size
- 1-5
- Territorial
- 0
VU
LC
10-30 g
Weight
5-7.5 cm
Length
- Coloration
- bright green with a lighter underside and a distinctive yellow or white stripe
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males are typically smaller and have more pronounced vocal sacs than females
- Lifespan
- 5-10 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 100-200 eggs
- Sexual Maturity
- 1-2 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring to early summer
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable, but habitat loss poses a potential threat.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to urban development and pollution. Climate change may also impact their breeding habitats.
- Predators
- birds, snakes, and larger amphibians
- Defense Mechanisms
- They can blend into their surroundings to avoid detection and may also secrete toxins from their skin when threatened.
- Found in Zoos
- Common