11 Types of Frogs in South Dakota
South Dakota is home to several frog species, including the boreal chorus frog, American toad, and northern leopard frog. Start looking near wetlands and ponds in eastern SD during spring and summer. This guide covers identification, lookalikes, and the best places to spot them.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated June 6, 2026.
- 8
- species recorded
- June, July, September
- peak months
Verified species, source iNaturalist
11 types of frogs recorded in South Dakota
11 frog species have a verified observation record in South Dakota, each with at least 10 confirmed sightings. The full list, ranked by how often each is recorded, is below.
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Plus 2 more recorded only rarely (fewer than 10 verified sightings). Counts from verified iNaturalist observations. Photos by iNaturalist observers, reused under the licence each observer chose.
Real sighting data, source iNaturalist
2,456 verified observations on iNaturalist of frog have been recorded in South Dakota, most often in June, July, September.
When frog are recorded in South Dakota
South Dakota is home to several frog species, including the boreal chorus frog, American toad, and northern leopard frog. Start looking near wetlands and ponds in eastern SD during spring and summer. This guide covers identification, lookalikes, and the best places to spot them.
What are the most common frogs in South Dakota?
The most frequently encountered frogs in South Dakota are the boreal chorus frog, northern leopard frog, American toad (technically a toad but often grouped), and the plains leopard frog. The western chorus frog and the Great Plains toad also appear in suitable habitats. For a broader perspective on frog species, see ourfrog identification hub.
In South Dakota, frogs sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to the most useful ID markers and likely lookalikes. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
How can you tell apart similar looking frog species?
The boreal chorus frog and western chorus frog are nearly identical, but the boreal chorus frog has a more extensive dark stripe through the eye. Northern leopard frogs have distinct dark spots with light borders, while plains leopard frogs have more elongated spots and a pointed snout. The American toad has warty skin and large parotoid glands behind the eyes. Always check the dorsal markings and the presence of a light line on the upper jaw to separate species.
Where in South Dakota are frogs most likely seen?
Frogs are most common in the eastern third of South Dakota, especially around the Missouri River floodplain and the Prairie Pothole region. Look in shallow marshes, roadside ditches, and cattle ponds. The Black Hills have isolated populations of boreal chorus frogs near beaver ponds. For more details on where to search, visit ourSouth Dakota wildlife page.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
What is the best season for frog spotting?
The optimal time is from late March through June, when frogs emerge from hibernation and begin breeding. Nighttime temperatures above 50°F with recent rain trigger the most activity. Late summer can also be good for juvenile frogs, but midday heat often drives them into cover. Early spring before vegetation thickens gives the best viewing odds.
What do the calls of South Dakota frogs sound like?
Boreal chorus frogs make a series of short, repetitive *creeeek* sounds, while northern leopard frogs produce a low, guttural snore lasting a few seconds. American toads have a long, musical trill that can last 20-30 seconds. To narrow down which frog you are hearing, combine the call with the habitat and time of year. Use the travel widget below for more localized tips.
What frog art prints are available for your home?
Once you have identified the frogs of South Dakota, you might want to bring a piece of that experience indoors. Here are some art prints that capture the beauty of these amphibians.
Red Eyed Tree Frog Limited-Edition Print
A striking close-up that shows the vivid red eyes and green body of this classic tree frog. Perfect for any frog fan.Check Price and Availability
Pine Barrens Tree Frog Limited-Edition Print
This print features the rare Pine Barrens tree frog with its purple and green tones. A unique conversation starter.Check Price and Availability
Wall art print: Frog by Eimear Maguire
An illustration-style frog sitting on a leaf, available framed or unframed. Great for a nature-themed room.Check Price and Availability
If you prefer something to wear, browse our selection offrog t-shirts.
Frequently asked questions about South Dakota frogs
- **Are there poisonous frogs in South Dakota?** No, but the American toad secretes a mild toxin that can irritate skin and eyes. It is not deadly to humans.
- **What is the largest frog in South Dakota?** The northern leopard frog can reach up to 4.5 inches, making it one of the biggest.
- **Can you keep wild frogs as pets?** It is generally not recommended. Wild frogs often carry diseases, and removing them from their habitat harms local populations.
- **When do frogs hibernate in South Dakota?** Most species burrow into mud or under leaf litter by October and emerge in March or April.
See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.
Gear and field guides
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common frogs in South Dakota?+
The most frequently encountered frogs in South Dakota are the boreal chorus frog, northern leopard frog, American toad (technically a toad but often grouped), and the plains leopard frog. The western chorus frog and the Great Plains toad also appear in suitable habitats. For a broader perspective on frog species, see ourfrog identification hub. In South Dakota, frogs sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to the most useful ID markers and likely lookalikes. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
How can you tell apart similar looking frog species?+
The boreal chorus frog and western chorus frog are nearly identical, but the boreal chorus frog has a more extensive dark stripe through the eye. Northern leopard frogs have distinct dark spots with light borders, while plains leopard frogs have more elongated spots and a pointed snout. The American toad has warty skin and large parotoid glands behind the eyes. Always check the dorsal markings and the presence of a light line on the upper jaw to separate species.
Where in South Dakota are frogs most likely seen?+
Frogs are most common in the eastern third of South Dakota, especially around the Missouri River floodplain and the Prairie Pothole region. Look in shallow marshes, roadside ditches, and cattle ponds. The Black Hills have isolated populations of boreal chorus frogs near beaver ponds. For more details on where to search, visit ourSouth Dakota wildlife page. See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
What is the best season for frog spotting?+
The optimal time is from late March through June, when frogs emerge from hibernation and begin breeding. Nighttime temperatures above 50°F with recent rain trigger the most activity. Late summer can also be good for juvenile frogs, but midday heat often drives them into cover. Early spring before vegetation thickens gives the best viewing odds.
What do the calls of South Dakota frogs sound like?+
Boreal chorus frogs make a series of short, repetitive *creeeek* sounds, while northern leopard frogs produce a low, guttural snore lasting a few seconds. American toads have a long, musical trill that can last 20-30 seconds. To narrow down which frog you are hearing, combine the call with the habitat and time of year. Use the travel widget below for more localized tips.
What frog art prints are available for your home?+
Once you have identified the frogs of South Dakota, you might want to bring a piece of that experience indoors. Here are some art prints that capture the beauty of these amphibians. ### Red Eyed Tree Frog Limited-Edition Print A striking close-up that shows the vivid red eyes and green body of this classic tree frog. Perfect for any frog fan.Check Price and Availability ### Pine Barrens Tree Frog Limited-Edition Print This print features the rare Pine Barrens tree frog with its purple and green tones. A unique conversation starter.Check Price and Availability ### Wall art print: Frog by Eimear Maguire An illustration-style frog sitting on a leaf, available framed or unframed. Great for a nature-themed room.Check Price and Availability If you prefer something to wear, browse our selection offrog t-shirts.
Keep exploring
More wildlife in South Dakota