Frogs in Ohio: Ohio’s Outstanding Frog Species

Oh, the joys of exploring the great outdoors in Ohio! Did you know that our beautiful state is home to a whole array of fascinating frog species? That’s right, there are about 15 different species of frogs hopping around our ponds, forests, and even backyards.

From the melodious tunes of the spring peeper to the impressive leaps of the bullfrog, these incredible amphibians never cease to amaze and delight. Let’s dive into the world of Ohio’s frogs and learn more about these unique creatures.

So, grab your binoculars, slip on your rain boots, and join us on a virtual journey as we hop our way through Ohio’s wetlands and uncover the fantastic frogs that call this place home!

#	Name	Details	Image
1	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
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	Blanchard’s Cricket Frog (Acris blanchardi)	Size: 0.6-1.5 inches (1.5-3.8 cm) Color & Pattern: Varied green, gray, or brown with darker markings or spots Habitat: Shallow wetlands, lakes, and streams with grassy or muddy edges Vocalizations: Sharp, high-pitched peeping calls by males during breeding
5	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
6	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
7	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
8	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
9	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
10	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
11	Northern Green Frog (Lithobates clamitans melanota)	Size: 2.3-3.5 inches (6-9 cm) Color & Pattern: Green to brown with dark mottling or spots, may have yellow or white dorsolateral ridges Habitat: Ponds, lakes, marshes, streams, rivers Vocalizations: Low-pitched call resembling a plucked banjo string or loose shoe on a wet floor
12	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
13	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
14	Southern Leopard Frog (Lithobates sphenocephalus)	Size: 2-3.5 inches (5-9 cm) Color & Pattern: Green or brown with dark, round spots and light borders Habitat: Marshes, swamps, rivers, agricultural areas Vocalizations: Low-pitched chuckle or snore-like call by males during breeding
15	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

15 Frog Species You Can Find in Ohio

Get ready to dive deep into the lives of 15 incredible frog species that call Ohio their home, showcasing their unique adaptations and remarkable behaviors.

1. 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.

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. Blanchard’s Cricket Frog

Introducing Acris blanchardi, the diminutive amphibian more commonly known as Blanchard’s Cricket Frog, who dazzles with a varied array of green, gray, or brown tones adorned with darker markings or spots. These energetic frogs are experts in camouflage, measuring only 0.6-1.5 inches (1.5-3.8 cm) in length, and use their powerful hind legs to leap up to 3 feet (1 meter) in a single bound!

Preferring the serene shallow wetlands, lakes, and streams with grassy or muddy edges of southeast Canada and the eastern United States, Blanchard’s Cricket Frogs find the perfect estuaries to feast on their diet of aquatic insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates. These agile performers serenade their mates with sharp, high-pitched peeping calls, after which the female lays her eggs individually or in small clumps in the shallows.

Despite being tiny, it’s hard not to take notice of Blanchard’s Cricket Frogs due to their prodigious egg-laying skills, producing spawn almost continuously through the breeding season under the conservation status of “Least Concern”. The blend of their unique adaptations, spectacular colorations, and energetic leaps leave no doubt that Blanchard’s Cricket Frogs are truly one-of-a-kind.

5. 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 Ohio 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.

6. 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.

7. 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 Ohio with their harmonious existence.

8. 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.”

9. 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 Ohio 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.

10. 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.

11. Northern Green Frog

Introducing the Northern Green Frog (Lithobates clamitans melanota), a fascinating inhabitant of eastern North America’s ponds, lakes, and marshes. Sporting a vibrant palette of green to brown hues adorned with dark mottling and sometimes donning white or yellow dorsolateral ridges, this amphibian measures a dainty 2.3-3.5 inches (6-9 cm).

These clever creatures thrive by feasting on aquatic insects, spiders, snails, and even smaller frogs and fish. Males lovingly build underwater nests in shallow waters, where females lay their precious eggs in gelatinous masses. The tadpoles of these intriguing frogs showcase a unique ability to adapt to various environments, with their elongated hind legs providing powerful swimming prowess.

The Northern Green Frog boasts a low-pitched call, reminiscent of a plucked banjo string or a loose shoe on a wet floor. In addition, tadpoles may overwinter to increase survival rates, and though they are often mistaken for bullfrogs, their conservation status remains of least concern. So, next time you’re near a pond, listen for their unique song and marvel at these delightful creatures.

12. 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.

13. 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 Ohio 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.

14. Southern Leopard Frog

This charming creature displays a captivating green or brown complexion adorned with dark, round spots and light borders. At a petite size of 2-3.5 inches (5-9 cm), they make their homes in marshes, swamps, rivers, and even agricultural areas throughout the southeastern United States.

These curious amphibians have a hearty appetite, indulging in insects, spiders, small crustaceans, and other invertebrates. To expand their family, they breed in shallow freshwater habitats, laying their eggs in mesmerizing masses. You may even hear their low-pitched chuckle or snore-like call emanating from the males as they partake in their breeding rituals.

The Southern Leopard Frog is an agile and adaptable species, boasting powerful legs for jumping and the ability to tolerate colder temperatures. Amazingly, they can even breathe through their skin while hibernating underwater. Currently, these splendid creatures have a conservation status of least concern, but let’s not forget their unique features and crucial role within their ecosystems.

15. 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.

Nearby States:

• Frogs in South Dakota
• Frogs in Wisconsin

What Are the Most Common Frog Species Found in Ohio and Tennessee?

Ohio and Tennessee’s terrific frog varieties include the American bullfrog, green frog, and wood frog. These amphibians can be found in wetlands, ponds, and lakes throughout both states. They are an important part of the local ecosystems and contribute to the overall biodiversity of the region.

Are Ohio’s Frog Species Similar to Michigan’s Amphibians?

Ohio’s frog species share many similarities with Michigan’s amphibians due to their overlapping climates and habitats. However, michigan’s diverse and beautiful native frogs include species like the northern leopard frog and mink frog, which may be less common in Ohio, highlighting some differences between the two regions’ amphibian populations.

What are the Unique Frog Species Found in Ohio and North Dakota?

Ohio and North Dakota are home to unique frog species. Ohio is known for its Pickerel frog and North Dakota’s varieties include the Northern leopard frog and the Wood frog. These frogs in north dakota’s varieties can be found in various habitats, adding to the diversity of the region’s wildlife.

Final Words

In summary, Ohio boasts a remarkable array of 15 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 Ohio. In addition to Ohio’s diverse frog species, neighboring Iowa also hosts a wide variety of amphibians, each with its own set of fascinating characteristics. From the plains to the woodlands, Iowa’s diverse frog species add to the rich tapestry of wildlife that call the state home. Explore the numerous wetlands and natural areas to catch a glimpse of these enchanting creatures and deepen your understanding of the important role they play in the ecosystem. Just as Ohio and Iowa showcase their rich amphibian biodiversity, Idaho is home to its own fascinating array of frog species. The **frogs found in Idaho** thrive in a variety of ecosystems, from mountainous regions to peaceful wetlands, displaying resilience and adaptability to diverse conditions. Observing these creatures in their natural habitats provides an incredible opportunity to appreciate the critical ecological roles they fulfill across different states.