Frogs in Oregon: Oregon’s Croaking Symphony

If you’re as fascinated by frogs as we are, you’re in for a real treat — did you know that Oregon is home to a whopping 13 different species of these amazing little hoppers?

That’s right, from the mountains to the coast, our beautiful state provides the perfect environments for these fascinating creatures to thrive. So buckle up and get ready to leap into a world of wonder as we explore the diverse and colorful world of Oregon’s froggy inhabitants.

Whether you’re an aspiring herpetologist, a nature lover, or simply curious about the critters in your backyard, hop along with us as we delve into the remarkable world of Oregon frogs.

#	Name	Details	Image
1	Cascades Frog (Rana cascadae)	Size: 1.5-3 inches (4-7.6 cm) Color & Pattern: Brown or green with dark patches or spots Habitat: Mountain streams, ponds, wet meadows Vocalizations: Soft, short calls or chirps by males during breeding
2	Coastal Tailed Frog (Ascaphus truei)	Size: 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) Color & Pattern: Greenish-brown, gray or dark brown with small, irregular spots Habitat: Cold, fast-moving streams in forests Vocalizations: Males make feeble clicking noises
3	Columbia Spotted Frog (Rana luteiventris)	Size: 1.5-4 inches (3.8-10 cm) Color & Pattern: Black, brown or green with irregularly shaped spots Habitat: Wetlands, streams, lakes, ponds Vocalizations: Low-pitched, rapid chuckling or clicking call by males during breeding
4	Foothill Yellow-legged Frog (Rana boylii)	Size: 1.5-3.1 inches (3.8-8 cm) Color & Pattern: Light brown or gray with dark spots; yellow undersides of legs Habitat: Streams, rivers, and creeks Vocalizations: Males make short, quiet, low-pitched calls during breeding
5	Northern Red-Legged Frog (Rana aurora)	Size: 1.5-3.5 inches (4-9 cm) Color & Pattern: Brown or reddish-brown with black markings; red or orange underside Habitat: Forests, marshes, wetlands, streams Vocalizations: Weak, low-pitched call by males during breeding
6	Pacific Tree Frog (Pseudacris regilla)	Size: 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) Color & Pattern: Green, brown, or gray with a dark eye stripe Habitat: Woodlands, grasslands, wetlands Vocalizations: Distinctive “ribbit” call by males during breeding
7	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
8	Oregon Spotted Frog (Rana pretiosa)	Size: 1.5-4 inches (3.8-10 cm) Color & Pattern: Brown or green with black spots, dark mask over eyes Habitat: Wetlands, marshes, slow-moving streams Vocalizations: Low-pitched, distinctive series of rapid short calls by males during breeding
9	Rocky Mountain Tailed Frog (Ascaphus montanus)	Size: 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) Color & Pattern: Brown, gray, or green with darker mottling or spots Habitat: Cold, clear, rocky streams in mountainous regions Vocalizations: Males do not have vocalizations
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	Western Toad (Bufo boreas)	Size: 3-5 inches (7.6-12.7 cm) Color & Pattern: Brown, gray, green, or olive with dark blotches; light dorsal stripe Habitat: Forests, meadows, wetlands, and grasslands Vocalizations: Low-pitched short trills by males during breeding
12	Woodhouse’s Toad (Anaxyrus woodhousii)	Size: 2-5 inches (5-12.7 cm) Color & Pattern: Gray, green, or brown with dark blotches, light-colored midline stripe Habitat: Grasslands, shrublands, forests, agricultural fields Vocalizations: Males produce a long, nasal trill during breeding season
13	Great Basin Spadefoot Toad (Spea intermontana)	Size: 1.5-3 inches (3.8-7.6 cm) Color & Pattern: Green to brown with dark spots, light-colored stripe along spine Habitat: Sagebrush, grasslands, desert scrub Vocalizations: Males make low-pitched chirping noises during breeding

Are Vermont’s Vivacious Frogs Comparable to Oregon’s Croaking Symphony?

Vermont’s vivacious frogs create a lively presence in their lush habitats, often compared to Oregon’s croaking symphony. Both states boast unique soundscapes, yet the cold climate gives Vermont’s frogs an edge in adapting to harsher environments. For a detailed understanding, explore the frogs in vermont overview.

Are Frogs in Oregon Similar to Frogs in West Virginia in Terms of Species and Behavior?

Frogs in Oregon and West Virginia share some similarities in species, yet distinct regional variations occur due to differences in climate and habitat. The frogs of west virginia explained include species like the wood frog, while Oregon is home to unique species such as the Pacific tree frog, showing varying behaviors and adaptations.

13 Frog Species You Can Find in Oregon

Get ready to dive deep into the lives of 13 incredible frog species that call Oregon their home, showcasing their unique adaptations and remarkable behaviors. These fascinating amphibians have adapted to Oregon’s diverse ecosystems, from the damp forests of the coast to the arid high deserts. Each species has evolved its own way of thriving, whether through camouflage, specialized diets, or unique breeding rituals. In contrast, frogs in Wyoming often face harsher, more variable climates, pushing them to develop different strategies for survival in the colder, drier conditions.

1. Cascades Frog

Meet Rana cascadae, commonly known as the Cascades Frog, a petite amphibian measuring only 1.5 to 3 inches in length. Adorned with a beautiful brown or green color and intriguing dark patches or spots, these captivating creatures inhabit the breathtaking landscapes of mountain streams, ponds, and wet meadows in the Northwestern United States, gracing the regions of California, Oregon, and Washington.

These tiny marvels have a voracious appetite for aquatic insects, beetles, snails, and small invertebrates. The amorous Cascades Frogs engage in aquatic courtship, with males displaying their charm through soft, short calls or chirps. They reproduce in their beloved water, laying their precious eggs amidst the sanctuary of submerged vegetation. Remarkably, these frogs that call Oregon their home possess freeze-tolerance adaptations and can hibernate underwater in oxygen-rich habitats.

Though classified as Near Threatened, the Cascades Frog serves as an invaluable indicator species, attuning us to the health of their ecosystems. Their sensitivity to temperature changes embodies nature’s whispers, signaling environmental shifts often unnoticed by the human world. These magnificent miniature beings merit our attention, admiration, and protection, teaching us the importance of preserving the delicate balance of our collective home.

2. Coastal Tailed Frog

Hailing from the mystical wetlands of Western North America, the petite Coastal Tailed Frog (Ascaphus truei) boasts an enchanting appearance. Bedecked in greenish-brown, gray, or dark brown hues, these 1-2 inch amphibians are adorned with small, irregular spots, cleverly camouflaging them amongst the cold, fast-moving woodland streams they call home.

Unlike their fellow frogs, male Coastal Tailed Frogs master the art of seduction with a soulful serenade of feeble clicking noises. Engaging in a delicate dance of external fertilization, males expertly clasp females and deposit their sperm onto newly-laid eggs, aided by their signature tail-like extension and Herculean forelimbs. Their taste for aquatic insects and small invertebrates fuels their vigor in the pursuit of love.

Despite their ancient lineage, dating back over 100 years – earning the title of the oldest known living frog species – the Coastal Tailed Frog’s ethereal presence is near threatened. Resolute in their resistance to time, these captivating creatures continue to inspire the conservation of their habitat to ensure they continue enchanting generations to come.

3. Columbia Spotted Frog

From Alaska to Nevada, you’ll find these small amphibians – ranging from 1.5 to 4 inches in size – leisurely residing in wetlands, streams, lakes, and ponds. Their diet primarily consists of aquatic insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates hiding in their watery abodes.

Males of this elusive species serenade their female counterparts with low-pitched, rapid chuckling or clicking calls during breeding. You’ll find their eggs in clusters attached to vegetation within the serene waters of quiet ponds. Keep an eye out for their astonishing explosive jumps for escape, and watch them gracefully swim using the webbing on their hind feet – natural adaptations serving their survival in aquatic habitats.

Did you notice a flash of red or orange on the frog’s belly? That’s a distinctive feature of the Columbia Spotted Frog. Not only visually striking, but these little frogs are also essential to our understanding of wetlands, as they serve as a habitat indicator species. Although their conservation status is currently “least concern,” let’s celebrate and protect these incredible, vibrant creatures and the vital habitats they call home.

4. Foothill Yellow-legged Frog

Meet the Foothill Yellow-legged Frog (Rana boylii), a small but fascinating amphibian mostly found in the western North America region, including California, Oregon, and Washington. Sporting a light brown or gray body adorned with dark spots and distinct yellow undersides on their legs, this frog measures a dainty 1.5 to 3.1 inches (3.8-8 cm) in size, perfectly camouflaged along streams, rivers, and creeks, where it makes its home.

These marvelous little creatures that call Oregon their home rely on aquatic insects, spiders, and snails for nourishment, and breed in slow-moving, shallow waters, laying their egg masses on submerged rocks. The males serenade their mates with short, quiet, low-pitched calls during mating season, while their webbed rear feet and flattened bodies ensure that they are adept swimmers. Taking camouflage a step further, their characteristic dorsolateral ridges help them blend seamlessly into their surroundings.

Despite their intriguing appearance and behavior, the Foothill Yellow-legged Frog’s conservation status is classified as ‘Near Threatened’. These captivating amphibians face significant challenges, with their populations declining due to habitat loss, dams, and climate change. Their struggle highlights the importance of preservation and conservation efforts to ensure these fascinating creatures continue to thrive in their native habitats.

5. Northern Red-Legged Frog

Its size ranges between 1.5-3.5 inches and its exquisite brown or reddish-brown skin sports intricate black markings with a vibrant red or orange hue on the underside. In the wild, they inhabit forests, marshes, wetlands, and streams across western North America from Alaska to California.

A versatile creature, it feasts on an array of insects, spiders, small crustaceans, and aquatic invertebrates. During mating season, these critters breed in shallow, slow-moving waters where they lay large egg clusters, while males serenade with their weak, low-pitched calls. Superior swimmers, their well-developed toe webbing provides a remarkable advantage.

A sensitive soul with a near-threatened conservation status, the Northern Red-Legged Frog is an indicator species for ecosystem health as it is particularly sensitive to pollution and habitat loss. Their captivating existence provides a unique insight into the delicate balance of nature.

6. Pacific Tree Frog

These petite amphibians measure a mere 1-2 inches long, and beautifully adorn themselves in shades of green, brown, or gray with a striking dark eye stripe. Agile and adaptable, they thrive in diverse habitats across western North America, from the lush forests of Alaska to the sunny shores of California.

The Pacific Tree Frog’s diet primarily consists of insects, spiders, and small invertebrates. They cherish their role as the “voice of the frog chorus,” and delight in serenading the environment during breeding season with their distinctive “ribbit” calls. When it’s time for reproduction, these fascinating creatures breed in aquatic habitats, laying eggs in clusters carefully attached to vegetation.

Despite their small size, Pacific Tree Frogs flaunt remarkable adaptability. They can change colors depending on their environment, expertly blending in with their surroundings. Adept climbers, they easily ascend trees and shrubs in search of food or safety. With a conservation status of “least concern,” these tiny, talented frogs continue to symbolize the enduring spirit of the American West’s wetlands.

7. 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 Oregon 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.

8. Oregon Spotted Frog

Adorned in earthy shades of brown or green and accented with black spots and a mysterious dark mask over its eyes, this charming amphibian ranges from 1.5 to 4 inches in size. Its distinctive low-pitched serenade can be heard resonating throughout the lush wetlands, marshes, and slow-moving streams of the Pacific Northwest, from California all the way up to British Columbia.

A vital member of the aquatic ecosystem of Oregon, the Oregon Spotted Frog has a penchant for devouring aquatic insects and small invertebrates. These nimble jumpers exhibit remarkable adaptations to their environment, including the ability to tolerate low oxygen levels in water and strong leg muscles for making great leaps. When it comes to reproduction, Rana pretiosa stands out from its amphibious counterparts, laying its eggs in floating clumps earlier in spring and exclusively within permanent aquatic habitats.

Despite its incredible adaptability, the Oregon Spotted Frog’s existence now hangs in the balance, classified as at-risk and federally threatened in the United States. It is crucial that we safeguard these unique creatures and their habitats in the face of the many challenges threatening their survival.

9. Rocky Mountain Tailed Frog

Often found hiding within the cascading waters of northern Idaho, Montana, and northeastern Washington is the enchanting Rocky Mountain Tailed Frog (Ascaphus montanus). Wrapped in a cloak of varying shades like brown, gray, or green with darker mottling or spots, these 1-2 inch beings are a tribute to the oldest frog lineage that dates back 150 million years ago.

Their fascinating features include the presence of a unique ‘tail’ that aids in sperm delivery and a special oral disc found only in tailed frog tadpoles, meant for grazing algae on rocks. These timeless creatures thrive in cold, clear, rocky streams of mountainous regions while sustaining themselves on aquatic insects, mayflies, stoneflies, and other small invertebrates. Stealthily laying their eggs under rocks within streambeds in Oregon, these frogs embody the essence of the wild, where males exercise silence, seemingly in reverence to the circles of life.

Presently, their conservation status is not under threat, and nature lovers can revel in the knowledge that the Rocky Mountain Tailed Frog continues to thrive in its pristine alpine homes. Secrets whispered by water currents carry the tales of these ancient beings, reminding us that nature’s history is etched in the smallest of its inhabitants.

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. Western Toad

This small yet fascinating creature ranges from 3 to 5 inches in size, boasting a captivating palette of brown, gray, green, or olive hues, adorned with dark blotches and a striking light dorsal stripe. Their nocturnal nature adds a certain air of mystery, as they dig burrows and hibernate during the biting winter months.

Making their homes in forests, meadows, wetlands, and grasslands, these toads have claimed an extensive territory spanning western North America—from the frosty expanse of Alaska to the sun-soaked stretches of Mexico. Known for their carnivorous appetite, Western Toads feast on insects, spiders, worms, and other small invertebrates, ensuring a balanced ecosystem in their diverse habitats. The low-pitched short trills of males during breeding season prove they are nothing if not romantic.

These fascinating creatures have uniquely adapted to their environment; glands in their skin secrete a powerful toxin to ward off predators, and their ability to breed in ephemeral ponds showcases their resilience. However, Western Toads are currently considered near threatened, emphasizing the need for diligent conservation efforts. Their captivating story serves as a stark reminder for us to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the wild.

12. Woodhouse’s Toad

Anaxyrus woodhousii, commonly known as Woodhouse’s Toad, is a small and adaptable amphibian found throughout western North America – from the fields of southern Canada to the forests of northern Mexico. Measuring 2-5 inches in length, this friendly toad boasts a mottled gray, green, or brown appearance with dark blotches and a distinctive light-colored midline stripe down its back.

This resourceful creature thrives in a range of habitats, from grasslands and shrublands to forests and agricultural fields. They enjoy a hearty diet of insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates. During the breeding season, male Woodhouse’s toads serenade their potential mates with a long, nasal trill, laying their eggs in lengthy strings within temporary or permanent bodies of water.

The Woodhouse’s Toad is well adapted for survival, possessing parotoid glands that secrete a potent toxin called bufotoxin to deter predators. They are also adept burrowers, easily creating underground shelters. Although their conservation status is currently listed as “least concern,” their populations have been impacted by pesticide use. This versatile and resilient toad continues to play an essential role in our diverse North American ecosystems.

13. Great Basin Spadefoot Toad

Donning hues of green to brown, decorated with mysterious dark spots and an elegant light-colored stripe down its spine, this small creature measures just between 1.5-3 inches. Roaming the sagebrush, grasslands, and desert scrub landscapes of Oregon, this petite amphibian can be found spreading its charm throughout the southwestern expanses of Canada and the western US.

Always on the hunt for delicious insects, spiders, and small invertebrates, the Great Basin Spadefoot Toad knows how to survive. But once it’s time for reproduction, this little wonder seeks out temporary pools to lay its eggs, carefully attaching them to nearby vegetation. During the breeding season, males serenade their partners with low-pitched, harmonious chirping noises.

Possessing impressive adaptations, the Spea intermontana is well-equipped for its environment. Its hind feet showcase spade-like appendages for digging, and they can even secrete toxins to discourage predators. This extraordinary toad goes into aestivation during dry periods, shedding its skin in a unique “cocoon” during emergence. With a conservation status of “least concern”, it seems, for now, the enchanting Great Basin Spadefoot Toad is here to stay.

Nearby States:

• Frogs in Utah
• Frogs in Washington

Final Words

In summary, Oregon boasts a remarkable array of 13 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 Oregon.