Squirrel Tree Frog
Dryophytes squirellus
What it is
The squirrel tree frog (Dryophytes squirellus) is a small species of tree frog found in the southeastern United States, from Texas to Virginia. This is an introduced species in the Bahamas. Squirrel tree frogs are small frogs, about 1.5 inches in length as adults. There are several color variations, but most commonly they are green and look very much like the American green tree frog. They can also be varying shades of yellow or brown, sometimes...
Where and when to find it
- Habitat
- Found in the southeastern United States, living in trees and shrubs near water, even in suburban yards.
- How to find it
- Look on leaves and branches after rain. Listen for their squirrel-like calls, especially on warm, wet nights.
- Best time of day
- After dusk, particularly after rain, spring and summer
How it lives
- What it eats
- Small insects and other invertebrates
- What eats it
- Birds, snakes, other frogs
Worth knowing
- Their call sounds like a quacking duck or a squirrel chirping.
- They can change their skin color from green to brown to gray.
- They have little sticky pads on their toes to help them climb.
- They are often seen near porch lights, catching bugs attracted to the light.
- They are usually only about 1.5 inches long.
- They often sing together in large groups after heavy rains.
Why it matters
They help control bug populations and are food for many larger animals. They are a sign of a healthy damp environment.