Southern Leopard Frog (Lithobates sphenocephala)

Southern Leopard Frog Call

Description: A medium-sized frog (5.1–8.9 cm; 2–3.5 in) with brown to green dorsal coloration marked by numerous large, irregular dark spots on the back, sides, and legs. Spots on the sides and legs are typically smaller than those on the back. A light, sometimes yellowish stripe runs along the upper jaw. Distinguished from the similar Pickerel Frog (L. palustris) by its rounded rather than square dorsal spots and by the absence of bright orange flash colors on the thighs.

Range and Habitat: Widespread throughout the Southeast, including Georgia and South Carolina. Occupies nearly any shallow freshwater habitat, favoring wetlands without fish, but may also tolerate slightly brackish water.

Habits: Although strongly associated with aquatic habitats, this species is more terrestrial than many ranids and may be found far from water. It is active both day and night and is frequently observed in large numbers crossing roads on rainy nights. It breeds primarily during winter and spring, though secondary breeding events sometimes occur in fall. Heavy winter rains can trigger explosive breeding activity.

Call: A guttural, chuckling croak, sometimes compared to the sound of a low laugh.

Conservation Status: Common and widespread throughout the Southeast; not protected.