Gray Tree Frogs
In spring, many species of frog and toad will congregate quickly to mate in the right wetland habitat when it warms to a certain temperature. Singing loudly all at once, these male frog choruses can be almost deafening. By the end of June, when most of these large calling matches are finished, is when the tree frog’s solitary call begins to stand out.
In addition to forested wetland areas, tree frogs can easily be found in residential yards. They are not afraid to use houses and decks for resting spots and windows for night-time hunting as the inside light attracts insects to eat.
Tree frogs hide during the day from bird predators such as red-shouldered hawks, crows and herons. Their ability to change colors to match their surroundings help them to disguise.
Tree frogs reach sexual maturity at 2 years of age. They survive the harsh Minnesota winters in a partially frozen state under leaf litter, rocks and logs because their bodies contain glycerol, the same liquid used to make antifreeze.
