The Reptiles and Amphibians of Utah

Description: Tan, brown, or green base color. Large dark brown, green, or black spots on the dorsal and sides. The spots get smaller as they get lower on the sides. The rear legs have a barred pattern with a dark reticulated pattern on the rear of the thighs. This species typically has a spot on the snout and a light-colored spot in the center of the tympanum (ear). The dorsolateral ridges are broken and inset posteriorly. A well-defined light stripe runs along the upper lip. The underside is cream or off-white colored.

Call: A series of short “clucks” followed by low grunting lasting about 5 to 6 seconds. Two rounded vocal sacs extend over the shoulders when calling.

Size: A medium-sized frog averaging 4 inches in length. 

Range and Habitat: This non-native frog has become established in the southern portion of Kane County near Lake Powell. It inhabits areas with permanent or semi-permanent water sources including streams, cattle ponds, lakes, and reservoirs within desertscrub and semi-desert grasslands. It can be found below 5,000 feet in elevation. 

Similar Species: The Northern Leopard Frog has an unbroken dorsolateral ridge,  lacks a light-colored spot in the center of the tympanum, and the rear of the thighs are spotted.