Tree Frogs in Colorado: identification guide and best places to start

1. Where are people most likely to notice tree frogs in Colorado?

Tree frogs in Colorado tend to stick close to water. I have had the best luck along the South Platte River basin east of Denver, in irrigation ditches near crops, and around the many small reservoirs on the plains. In the foothills, look for them in canyon streams below 7,000 feet. They are often heard calling from cattails and low shrubs at the water's edge. Check out the Colorado wildlife page for more habitat details.

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2. What season or weather patterns help with spotting?

Spring is prime time. From late March through early June, tree frogs breed and call loudly. Warm, rainy evenings are perfect. I once found a group of boreal chorus frogs near Barr Lake after a steady afternoon drizzle in April. The males inflate their throats and sing, making them much easier to locate. Dry summer heat shuts them down, so get out early in the season.

See our Tree Frogs guide for the next step.

3. Simple ID cues that separate Colorado tree frogs from lookalikes?

Colorado tree frogs are small, usually under 1.5 inches. Look for a dark stripe running from the snout through the eye and down the side. Their toe pads are tiny but distinct, unlike leopard frogs or toads. Color varies from green to brown or gray, but the stripe is the giveaway. The call is a short, scratchy trill, similar to running a fingernail over a comb. For more on tree frog identification, visit the tree frog hub.

See our state animal guide for the next step.

4. What is the best time of day to see tree frogs?

Dusk and nighttime are best. Tree frogs are nocturnal, so they hide during the day under logs or in dense vegetation. I usually head out just before sunset with a flashlight and listen for calls. After a rain, they may be active earlier in the evening. Bring waterproof boots and a headlamp to navigate muddy banks.

5. How can you attract tree frogs to your backyard?

If you have a yard in Colorado, you can create a mini habitat. Dig a small pond, add native rushes and sedges, and keep a pile of rocks or logs nearby. Avoid pesticides and herbicides. I built a tiny pond in my suburban backyard near Fort Collins and had calling tree frogs within two years. They also show up in rain barrels and kiddie pools, so keep an eye out.