How to Recognize a Mountain Chorus Frog?

 

MOUNTAIN CHORUS FROG (Pseudacris brachyphona)

 

Average Length: 1–1.3 in (2.5–3.2 cm)

Maximum Length: 1.5 in (3.8 cm)

Back coloration: Brown to Gray to Olive (drab)

Back markings: Dark stripes down the back that curve inward in the shape of reversed parenthesis “)(“ or sometimes an “X” or “H”

Head coloration: Dark mask through the eye & White above the upper lip

Head markings:  Dark Triangle between the eyes on top of the head

 

 

 

Spring Peepers and Upland Chorus Frogs might be mistaken for a Mountain Chorus Frogs.

 

 

 

 

 

Where do you find Mountain Chorus Frogs?

 

Mountain Chorus Frogs range from Pennsylvania to Mississippi. In Virginia they are typically found in the southwestern portion of the state.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Breeding Pools

 

Mountain Chorus Frogs are typically found at higher elevations (up to and exceeding 3,500’) on forested hillsides.

 

These frogs prefer to breed and call in shallow pools such as: wet ditches, flooded fields near streams, tire ruts, pools in road ruts, stream pools, and furrows in plowed fields.  They can call at night as well as during the day.

 

 

Did You Hear a Mountain Chorus Frog?

 

Call Description:

• “REEK-raaack”
• Squeaky Wagon Wheel

 

When do Mountain Chorus Frogs Call:

• During the day and night
• From Feb–April on warm, humid nights and often during or following rain events
• Occasionally until early-June

 

Listen to calling Mountain Chorus Frogs:

• Virginia Herpetological Society
• LEAPS
• Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources

 

 

Spring Peepers and Upload Chorus Frogs might sound similar to Mountain Chorus Frogs.

 

 

Learn More About Frogs of Virginia

 

A Guide to the Frogs and Toads of Virginia is a 44 page field guide that covers all 27 species of frogs and toads that inhabit Virginia and their calls have been captured in a high quality soundtracks that can be easily listened to in the field, classroom or at home.

 

Frogs & Toads of Virginia Guide