Frogs in Alaska: Identification Guide and Where to Start Looking

1. What species of frogs live in Alaska?

Alaska has only two native frog species: the wood frog (*Lithobates sylvaticus*) and the boreal chorus frog (*Pseudacris maculata*). The wood frog is the most widespread, found across the state from the Panhandle to the Interior. The boreal chorus frog is more restricted to the southeastern mainland. Both are small, brownish frogs easily confused, but with practice you can tell them apart.

2. How do you tell apart Alaska's wood frog and boreal chorus frog?

Focus on two field marks: the dark eye mask and the stripe pattern. Wood frogs have a distinct dark mask across their eyes, like a bandit. Boreal chorus frogs lack the mask but have three dark stripes down their back and a white line along the upper lip. Size is similar (1.5 to 3 inches), but the wood frog tends to be slightly larger.

3. Where in Alaska are frogs most often seen?

Frogs are most reliably spotted in shallow water bodies: vernal pools, pond edges, and slow-moving streams. Good starting locations include the Kenai Peninsula, Anchorage area wetlands, and the Mendenhall Wetlands near Juneau. Thewood frog identification guidehas more detail on specific habitat preferences across the state.

See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.

4. When is the best time of year to spot frogs in Alaska?

Late May through early July is prime time. This is the breeding season when frogs are calling and gathered in water. Wood frogs often breed in the first warm days after snowmelt, sometimes earlier. Boreal chorus frogs start calling a bit later. Early morning or evening gives the best odds of hearing them first.

5. Are there any lookalike frogs you might confuse with Alaska's species?

No other frogs live in Alaska, so confusion is mostly between the two natives. However, juvenile wood frogs can lack a strong mask, and boreal chorus frogs sometimes have broken stripes. Check the back stripe pattern and the lip line. If you see a frog with bright red or orange coloration, that is not a frog in Alaska. For comparison, see theAlaska wildlife hubfor other species you might encounter.

6. What's the best way to approach frog identification in the field?

Bring binoculars and avoid handling frogs to prevent stress and disease transmission. Listen for calls: wood frogs sound like a quacking duck, while boreal chorus frogs make a high-pitched rising trill. Take photos from a distance and note the eye mask and dorsal stripes. Wetlands with cattails and sedges are your best bet.

7. Frog art prints to bring your sightings home

If you enjoy the frogs you find in Alaska, consider adding a frog-themed art print to your space:

### Red Eyed Tree Frog Limited-Edition Print

This colorful print captures the iconic red eyed tree frog of Central America, a striking contrast to Alaska's frogs.Check Price and Availability

### Pine Barrens Tree Frog Limited-Edition Print

A detailed illustration of the pine barrens tree frog, a species from the eastern US.Check Price and Availability

### Wall art print: Frog by Eimear Maguire

A whimsical frog illustration that fits any wildlife-themed decor.Check Price and Availability

Browse morefrog-themed shirtsto show off your love for amphibians.

8. What are the main calls of Alaska's frogs?

The wood frog's call is a short, low-pitched cackle, often described as resembling a duck. The boreal chorus frog's call is a drawn-out, metallic trill that rises in pitch. Both are used to attract mates and can be heard from April to July. Recordings are available on thefrog species identification guidepage.

9. Can you keep a frog you find in Alaska as a pet?

It is illegal to capture wild frogs and keep them as pets in Alaska without a permit. The state's frog populations are small and sensitive to disturbance. Instead, enjoy them in the wild and consider frog-related merchandise if you want a lasting memory. Check ourAlaska wildlife regulationsfor more information.

See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.