Most leopard frogs tend to be shades of green or brown with a leopard pattern
This is a northern leopard frog sitting along a brook in Bethel, Maine. I find it challenging to shoot photos of frogs. They typically get spooked and jump away. However, this time I was able to approach very slowly. This allowed me to eventually get within about six inches of the frog. I was able to rest my lens on the rock and keep very still. The little frog must have been paralyzed in fear. After taking a few photos I backed away and viewed from a distance. It eventually hopped away.
There are many species of leopard frogs, but most tend to be shades of green or brown with a leopard pattern. There are similarities between the species and sometimes it can be hard to differentiate. In fact, in 2012 there was a new species of leopard frog confirmed, the Atlantic Coast leopard frog. This frog can be found in New York City. It is found as far south as North Carolina.
This northern leopard frog is dark green with dark brown spots. He was basking in the sunlight on a warm rock. At full size, the body of this frog will grow to around five inches. Their long legs make them fast on land and in the water. They are capable of jumping six feet. Leopard frogs can travel at up to four miles an hour.
What do these frogs prey on? As tadpoles they eat plants and algae. As they grow into adults, leopard frogs will prey upon insects and spiders. They are also known to prey upon other smaller northern leopard frogs. Most of their feeding is done on the land. They will dive into the water to avoid predation, or if startled.
Their long legs make them fast on land and in the water
Other Species of Frogs in Maine: Spring Peeper, Pickerel Frog, Mink Frog, Gray Tree Frog, American Bullfrog, Green Frog, and Wood Frog
Did you know?
- It takes around 17 days for northern leopard frog eggs to hatch.
- The average lifespan of a northern leopard frog is less than 5 years.
- The populations of northern leopard frogs have been declining since the 1970’s.
- Frogs can be found on every continent except Antarctica.
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