Wood frog

Wood Frog(Lithobates sylvaticus or Rana sylvatica) is a terrestrial frog found throughout North America. It can be found in the up into the north most boreal forests of Canada down to the Appalachian Mountains of the United States.

Description

The wood frog is a small frog ranging in size from an inch to three and a half inches in length as an adult. Females are typically larger than males and tend to be more brightly colored. It can be brown, tan to rust colored with distinct black patches over it's eyes that resemble a mask.The underbelly a greenish yellow Coloration may vary with individual depending on conditions. Two distinct ridges run down it's back on each side.

Distribution and Habitat

Wood Frogs can be found through most of Canada and Alaska and as far south as northern Georgia. In the United States they are mostly found in the Northeastern states. Wood frogs are forest dwelling amphibians. During the summer months they can be found in an moist forested areas, ravines,bogs or forested swamps During the winter months the seek refuge in leaf litter in the uplands. When spring comes they will migrate into forested wetlands or other protected bodies of water to breed. This migration can be somewhat explosive with large numbers migrating. For breeding these frogs find temporary pools of water of vernal pools. This can be any cut off water sources like in a stream or ponds, even in ditches. Wood frogs are diurnal and are rarely seen at night but often heard in loud chores during mating seasons.

Diet

Wood Frogs are omnivores. While inhabiting the forests as adults they feed on a variety of small invertebrates that they find on the forest floor. As tadpoles they will feed on alage or detritus and even larvae of amphibians.