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

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

Tree frogs in Washington are most often found in lowland areas west of the Cascades, from the Olympic Peninsula south to the Columbia River. Look for them in wet habitats like marshes, ponds, ditches, and even suburban backyards with dense shrubs or leaf litter. During breeding season (late winter to spring), they congregate at water bodies. Check our tree frog hub for more details on their range.

2. What season or weather patterns help find tree frogs?

The best time is from March to May when Pacific tree frogs breed. Warm, rainy nights are ideal because frogs are more active and call loudly. On dry summer days, they hide under logs or in moist soil, so your best odds are after a rain shower. Winter? They brumate underground, so sightings are rare. For more on Washington's wildlife seasons, see our Washington wildlife guide.

3. How can you tell a tree frog from similar species?

Pacific tree frogs (Pseudacris regilla) are small (1-2 inches) with a dark stripe through the eye and toe pads for climbing. Northern red-legged frogs are larger with red on their hind legs but no toe pads. Also, listen: Pacific tree frogs make a two-note "kreck-ek" call, while red-legged frogs have a series of low grunts. See our tree frog identification page for photos.

See our state animal guide for the next step.

4. What time of day are tree frogs most active?

Tree frogs are nocturnal, so activity peaks after sunset. During breeding, you may hear them calling in choruses from early evening until midnight. On overcast days, you might spot them during the day near water or in damp gardens. Use a flashlight to spot eye shine reflected in ponds.

5. What do tree frog calls sound like?

The Pacific tree frog's call is a distinctive "ribbit" or "kreck-ek" repeated every few seconds. This is the classic frog sound used in movies. Females are silent. If you hear a chorus, it means multiple males are competing. Recordings are available online to help ID them.