ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Green Frog

 Green Frog

green frog

The green frog is the most abundant and widely distributed frog in Ohio.

Scientifically speaking, only members of the Ranidae family are true frogs. In Ohio, this includes the bullfrog, green frog, leopard frog, pickerel frog, and wood frog. The others belong to the Hylidae family which includes the tree, chorus, and cricket frog. In general, frogs tend to have moist, relatively smooth skin and leap.
 

Green Frog
Lithobates clamitans melanota

At-a-Glance

• Family: Ranidae (Frogs)

• Length: 2.25 - 3.5 inches

• Peak Breeding Activity: April-August

• Typical Foods: invertebrates
Description
The green frog has two ridges or lateral folds down the back which, along with size, separate it from the bullfrog. Tadpoles closely resemble bullfrog tadpoles, but are smaller. They do not change into adult frogs until the second summer.

Habitat and Habits
This frog is very aquatic and stays near water season after season. It starts singing long after other frogs have stopped breeding and its song sounds like the plucking of a bass string on a banjo at well-spaced intervals. When disturbed, it utters a short, high-pitched cry as it dives into the water.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
Eggs are fertilized externally and attach to aquatic plants in smaller clusters. No parental care is involved.