Cope's gray treefrog - Hyla chrysoscelis

Size: 1 1/4 - 2 inches (3.2-5.1 cm)

Voice: A fast, metallic buzz like trill.

Identification: Closely resembles the gray treefrog (H. versicolor) and can only be distinguished in the field by their call. Coloration is normally solid green or mottled gray. Bright yellow-orange coloring on inner surface of hind legs. Large adhesive pads on tips of fingers and toes enable them to climb vegetation. Skin secretions may be irritating to the mucous membranes of human eyes and nose.

Life stages: Eggs are laid in loose clusters of up to 40 eggs and are attached to vegetation near the surface of the water. The eggs hatch in three to six days, transforming within two months. Sexual maturity is reached within two years.

Breeding habitat: Shallow wetlands, including wet meadows and shrub swamps.

Summer habitat: Prairie wetlands, shrub swamps, and woodlands. Also inhabits urban yards and may be seen clinging to windows on summer nights.

Winter habitat: Terrestrial. Body can withstand partial freezing.

Photo: ©J. Gerholdt.