Barking Treefrog (Hyla gratiosa)
Treefrog Family (Hylidae)
Barking treefrog is a gray to green (more common) to brown frog with dark round spots and blotches with gold flecks. Like most treefrogs, it can change its color rapidly. When stressed, it may become lighter in color, losing its dark blotches. It can reach up to 2.75 inches long. The skin is distinctly granular. The throat, belly, and inside of the hind legs are often deep yellow to gold. The head and snout are short. The ear drum is very conspicuous. Has large, specially developed toe pads that help it cling to branches and even glass. Males have large vocal pouches. Call is made by the male, and is a loud barking or honking sound similar to a goose. Breeds from March through September. Lays eggs singly at the bottom of permanent and semipermanent wetlands. The eggs hatch into tadpoles, which metamorphose into frogs. Active mostly at night. Found in the southeastern US, mostly in the coastal plain, primarily in pine forests and dry flatwoods. Spends most of its time in the treetops, but may burrow in sand and under tree roots during hot weather. Inactive during cold weather, burrowing into moist vegetation and soil. Largest native treefrog in the US. Has been used a pet.
Listed as endangered in DE & MD and threatened in VA.
