Squirrel Treefrog

Hyla squirella

Description

Squirrel tree frogs are abundant in south Mississippi (Powell et al., 2016). This species is one of the most variable in morphology of all native tree frogs. They are 0.75 – 1.5 inches in length and can be green, gray, brown, spotted, and everything in between.Males’ calls have been likened to a duck’s “quack.” 

Male treefrog calling near a flooded ditch, Harrison Co. (MS)

Identifying Traits

  • Extremely variable in color and patterning
  • Usually brown tympanum, indistinct yellowish side bar, front hands usually not green (differentiates from green tree frog)
  • Thighs may be yellow but without patterning (differentiates from other tree frogs)
Range

Habitat

Woodlands, grasslands, urban areas often near water (Powell et al., 2016). Commonly seen under lights on man-made structures.

Behavior

Their call is similar to the green tree frog, but more “dry” and “duck-like”

Diet

Various invertebrates

Calling male, Jackson Co. (MS)
Calling male near a small wetland, Jackson Co. (MS)