Treefrogs in trees

Gray treefrogs (Hyla versicolor) are often heard calling from trees near and over wetlands.

Recording of the gray treefrog (from the Amphibian Research and Monitoring Initiative)

These frogs are often mistaken for birds because of their musical trill and calling location.
I recently found one calling from a branch in a small tree near a wetland.

Gray treefrog (circled in red) in small tree at edge of wetland

Zoomed in to see gray treefrog sitting on branch

The gray treefrog is found throughout much of Minnesota and can change from mottled gray to mottled green. (Link to MN DNR gray treefrog page).

Gray treefrog in 'gray' phase

Gray treefrog in 'green' phase

Vernal Pool - Identification and Verification

Vernal pools are small seasonally flooded wetlands that provide vital habitat for many native amphibians and aquatic insects that require fish-free wetlands to survive. (Photos to right show a few examples of vernal pools in northern Minnesota)

Vernal Pool Workshops: History, Identification, and Monitoring in the MN Coastal Zone

 Join researchers from the Natural Resources Research Institute and participate in hands-on workshops investigating 'Vernal Pools' in the region. Workshops are free and open to the public. Participants will be introduced to methods for locating and identifying vernal pools. These workshops will help raise awareness about the value and importance of vernal pools.

Hartley Nature Center - April 26, 2014 10 am - 1 pm (Save the Frogs Day!)
Jay Cooke State Park – May 17, 2014 10 am - 1 pm
Tettagouche State Park – June 7, 2014 12 - 4 pm
Boulder Lake ELC - June 13, 2014 12 - 4 pm
Sugarloaf Nature Center - June 14, 2014 10 am - 1 pm
Grand Marais – June 28, 2014 12 - 4 pm

For more information:

Interested in Vernal Pool Workshops and Volunteering?

Submit vernal pool locations and data