Tree Frogs in Arkansas: identification guide and where to start looking

What types of tree frogs live in Arkansas?

Arkansas is home to four common tree frog species: the gray tree frog (Hyla versicolor), the green tree frog (Hyla cinerea), the squirrel tree frog (Hyla squirella), and the bird-voiced tree frog (Hyla avivoca). The spring peeper, though smaller, is also a tree frog but often confused with others. Most likely you will encounter the gray or green tree frog near water. For a broader overview, see ourArkansas wildlife guide.

How can you tell different Arkansas tree frogs apart?

Focus on skin texture, color, and markings. Gray tree frogs have bumpy skin and bright orange or yellow patches on their inner thighs. Green tree frogs are smooth, bright green with a white or yellow side stripe. Squirrel tree frogs vary from green to brown with irregular dark spots. Bird-voiced tree frogs are grayish with dark crossbands on the legs. Toe pad size also helps: tree frogs have large, sticky pads at the tips of their toes compared to other frogs. Check ourtree frog hubfor more ID tips.

Where are the best places to see tree frogs in Arkansas?

Start in the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains near streams and beaver ponds. The Mississippi Alluvial Plain in eastern Arkansas also holds good populations. Specific spots include Pinnacle Mountain State Park, Lake Ouachita, and the Buffalo National River area. Cautiously, focus on areas with standing water and dense vegetation. Nighttime drives along back roads after rain can reveal many frogs. For more local spots, see ourArkansas wildlife destinations.

See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.

When is the best time of year to spot tree frogs in Arkansas?

The best window runs from April through July, when warm, humid nights after rain trigger breeding choruses. Gray tree frogs call from April to August, green tree frogs often into September. Evening hours, especially just after sunset, offer the best odds. Look for them clinging to vegetation near water or on window screens at night.

What other frogs get mistaken for tree frogs in Arkansas?

The spring peeper (Pseudacris crucifer) is small with a dark X on its back, often confused with young tree frogs. The boreal chorus frog (Pseudacris maculata) has three dark stripes and is smaller. A key difference: tree frogs have larger toe pads and usually brighter coloration. Crickets frogs are also small but lack the climbing pads. Pay attention to the inner thigh color on gray tree frogs if you see them at close range.

Show your tree frog spotting style

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Frequently asked questions about tree frogs in Arkansas

**Are tree frogs poisonous in Arkansas?** No, Arkansas tree frogs are not poisonous to humans. Their skin secretions can irritate eyes or cuts, so wash hands after handling.

**Can you keep a tree frog as a pet in Arkansas?** Yes, but only if captured legally. Check state regulations; some species may require a permit.

**What do tree frogs eat in Arkansas?** They eat small insects like mosquitoes, flies, and moths. They are beneficial for pest control.

**Do tree frogs change color?** Gray tree frogs can change from gray to green or brown to match their surroundings. Green tree frogs don't change much.

**How long do tree frogs live in Arkansas?** In the wild, 4 to 7 years on average. In captivity, they can live longer.

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