Description

The Southern Leopard Frog is one of the more recognizable common frog species in Mississippi. They can be found throughout the state in a variety of water bodies. This species usually has a more narrow body that is brown or green, with small dark spots on the back and legs. A small light spot on the tympanum or “ear drum” is a good identifier. Males will call in late fall and winter with a laughing or growling cacophony. They have paired vocal sacs (see below photos).

Identifying Traits

• Green or brown body with circular, unbordered spots
• Light spot on tympanum (separates from pickerel frog)
• Dorsolateral folds unbroken down back of body

Habitat

Nearly any body of freshwater, occasionally found in brackish water (Powell et al., 2016)

Behavior

Males will call in winter with a low, “peely” laugh or growl. Various mixes of sounds.

Diet

Various invertebrates