Tree Frogs in North Dakota: Identification Guide and Where to Start Looking
Tree frogs are present in North Dakota but not as common as in eastern states. The most likely species you will encounter is the boreal chorus frog (Pseudacris maculata), a small tree frog often heard before seen. Start your search near marshes, ponds, and wet meadows in the eastern half of the state during spring and early summer.
Tree frogs are present in North Dakota but not as common as in eastern states. The most likely species you will encounter is the boreal chorus frog (Pseudacris maculata), a small tree frog often heard before seen. Start your search near marshes, ponds, and wet meadows in the eastern half of the state during spring and early summer.
1. What tree frog species live in North Dakota?
Two main tree frog species occur in North Dakota: the boreal chorus frog and the gray tree frog (Hyla versicolor). The boreal chorus frog is widespread and the one you will most likely see. Gray tree frogs are more limited to the eastern edge of the state, especially along the Red River Valley. Both are small, with boreal chorus frogs reaching about 1.5 inches and gray tree frogs up to 2 inches.
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2. How can you tell a tree frog from similar looking species?
Key field marks include enlarged toe pads, a light spot under each eye (in boreal chorus frog), and a generally smooth skin. Lookalikes like leopard frogs and cricket frogs lack large toe pads and have more prominent dorsal spots. The boreal chorus frog has three dark stripes down its back, while the gray tree frog has a mottled pattern that helps it blend into tree bark. Their calls are also distinct: a rising trill for gray tree frog, and a short, raspy "creak" for the boreal chorus frog.
See ourTree Frogs guidefor the next step.
3. Where in North Dakota are tree frogs most often seen?
Your best odds are in the eastern half of the state, especially in counties bordering Minnesota. Look in wetlands, flooded woodlands, and along slow moving streams. Good starting points include the Sheyenne National Grassland, Turtle River State Park, and the Pembina Gorge. In the central and west, tree frogs become scarce and are mostly limited to riparian corridors along the Missouri River.
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4. What is the best time of year to spot tree frogs?
Late April through June is the prime window, especially during warm, rainy nights when males call to attract mates. Daytime sightings are possible but require patience and slow movement near water edges. After breeding season, tree frogs disperse into trees and shrubs, making them harder to find. Listen for their calls at dusk to pinpoint locations.
5. How does the boreal chorus frog differ from the gray tree frog?
The boreal chorus frog has three continuous dark stripes down its back, a pale white upper lip, and a small size (0.75 1.5 inches). Gray tree frogs have a irregular blotchy pattern, bright yellow or orange on the inner thighs, and larger toe pads. Calls also differ: boreal chorus frogs make a short, metallic "creak" while gray tree frogs produce a loud, musical trill that lasts a couple seconds.
6. What sounds do North Dakota tree frogs make?
The boreal chorus frog's call is often compared to the sound of running a fingernail over a fine toothed comb or a short, scratchy "creak" repeated every few seconds. Gray tree frogs emit a clear, ascending trill that can last 1 3 seconds. Early in the season, you might also hear spring peepers, which have a high pitched whistle, but they are very rare in the state.
7. Are there any rare tree frog species in North Dakota?
The spring peeper (Pseudacris crucifer) is rare and has only been documented in a few southeastern counties near the Minnesota border. If you hear a single clear, high pitched whistle, it could be a spring peeper. Most sightings, however, will be boreal chorus frogs or gray tree frogs. Check with North Dakota Game and Fish for current county records.
8. Celebrate your tree frog sightings with wildlife themed apparel
After a successful outing, show your appreciation for these small amphibians with unique tree frog designs. Easy Street Markets offers a selection of tree frog shirts that make great conversation starters.
### Amazon Rainforest Upper Orinoco Tree Frog Sweatshirt
A cozy sweatshirt featuring a vibrant tree frog from the Amazon.Check Price and Availability
### Tree Frog T-Shirt
A classic tee with a simple tree frog graphic, perfect for everyday wear.Check Price and Availability
### Vintage Tree Frog T-Shirt
Retro styled design that stands out.Check Price and Availability
Browse our full collection ofwildlife shirtsto find more designs.
9. How can I identify tree frog eggs or tadpoles in North Dakota?
Tree frog eggs are laid in small, floating clusters attached to vegetation in shallow water, unlike the large jelly masses of true frogs. Tadpoles are small and often have a light stripe along each side. Look for them in temporary ponds and marshy areas from May through July.
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