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

You will find tree frogs around standing water in backyards, wetlands, and forest edges. In Idaho, the best odds are in the Panhandle region around Coeur d'Alene and the central mountains near the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. Check along slow streams, beaver ponds, and marshy lakeshores. Even a small garden pond can attract them. The Pacific tree frog prefers wetter elevations and is more common in northern Idaho, while the boreal chorus frog occupies higher elevations and drier forest edges. For more on the state's wildlife hotspots, see our Idaho wildlife guide.

Idaho hosts two primary tree frog species. The Pacific tree frog (Pseudacris regilla) is the most common and widespread, typically green or brown with a dark eye stripe and smooth skin. Adults reach 1.5 to 2 inches in length. The boreal chorus frog (Pseudacris maculata) is smaller, often olive-brown with three light stripes running down its back and a more flattened body shape. Both species have adhesive toe pads for climbing, though neither is a strong jumper. The Pacific tree frog has smoother, more uniform coloring, while the boreal chorus frog shows more visible striping. In higher elevation lakes and streams, the northern leopard frog is also present but prefers more open water and is less dependent on vegetation for shelter. For a full species breakdown, visit our tree frog identification hub.

Idaho tree frogs are small, typically 1 to 2 inches long, with sticky toe pads that let them climb smooth surfaces. Their skin is smooth, not bumpy like a toad. The Pacific tree frog is the most common, often green or brown with a dark eye stripe. The boreal chorus frog looks similar but has shorter legs and a more striped back. Listen for a short, repeated 'kree-ek' call. For a full species breakdown, visit our tree frog identification hub.

See our state animal guide for the next step.

Besides the Panhandle, look in the Payette National Forest and along the Snake River plain near wetlands. The Boise foothills can have them after spring rains. For a reliable spot, try the Keeney Creek area in the Palouse. Always check local regulations before handling frogs. A good map and a rainy forecast are your best tools.

Tree frogs are nocturnal, so your best window is from dusk to midnight. On cloudy, damp days you might spot them during the afternoon, but evening is prime. Use a red light to avoid startling them. Near water, you can hear males calling before you see them.