Tree frogs are a widespread group of amphibians, found all over the world, known for their ability to climb trees and other vegetation. They’re easily recognized by their small size, slender bodies, and specialized toe pads that allow them to grip surfaces.
In Michigan, these little climbers are often called “tree toads,” though they are, in fact, frogs. There are several species of tree frogs that call Michigan home.
This article will help you identify the different kinds of tree toads in Michigan, where they live, how they behave, and what’s being done to protect them.
Tree toad species in Michigan
There are two main types of tree frogs in Michigan: gray treefrogs and spring peepers.
Gray Treefrogs (Hyla versicolor and Hyla chrysoscelis)
Gray treefrogs have warty skin that comes in shades of gray, green, and brown, along with dark bands on their legs and a light-colored spot beneath each eye. There are actually two species of gray treefrogs in Michigan, but they look almost exactly alike. The difference is that Hyla versicolor has four copies of each chromosome (tetraploid) and Hyla chrysoscelis has two (diploid).
You can find gray treefrogs all over Michigan.
They’re known for their short, bird-like trill.
Spring Peeper (Pseudacris crucifer)
Spring peepers are small and have a distinctive X-shaped marking on their backs.
Like the gray treefrog, you can find spring peepers throughout the state.
They make a high-pitched “peep” sound.
Where do tree frogs live in Michigan?
Michigan’s tree frogs live in a wide range of habitats, but they are most commonly found in woodlands, forests, marshes, and swamps, especially near ponds and lakes. They depend on moisture for survival because their skin has to stay wet. They also need plenty of vegetation to hide from predators, hunt for food, and breed.
You can often find them in trees and shrubs, of course, but they also like to hang out in leaf litter and under logs. These microhabitats provide protection from the elements and from predators like snakes and birds. The wetter and more vegetated the area, the better the chance of finding these interesting amphibians.
Behavior and Life Cycle
Michigan’s tree frogs are fascinating creatures with unique behaviors and life cycles.
Feeding Habits
These little amphibians are primarily insectivores, meaning their diet mainly consists of insects. They also eat spiders and other small invertebrates they can find.
Tree frogs are ambush predators. They sit and wait for unsuspecting prey to wander by, then they use their long, sticky tongues to snatch up a meal in a fraction of a second.
Breeding and Reproduction
The breeding season for Michigan tree frogs typically occurs in the spring and early summer months.
During this time, the males call out to attract females. Once a pair forms, they engage in a process called amplexus, where the male grasps the female around her body. The female then lays her eggs in shallow water, often attaching them to vegetation.
The eggs hatch into tadpoles, which live in the water and feed on algae and other organic matter. Over time, the tadpoles undergo metamorphosis, gradually developing into juvenile frogs.
Activity Patterns
Tree frogs are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. This helps them avoid predators and stay cool during the day.
To avoid becoming a meal themselves, tree frogs rely on camouflage. Their skin blends in with their surroundings, allowing them to hide among vegetation and avoid detection.
How to identify tree frogs
Michigan has more than one kind of small frog that lives in trees. Here’s how to tell the difference between the Gray Treefrog and the Spring Peeper:
- Size: Gray Treefrogs are bigger than Spring Peepers.
- Markings: Spring Peepers have a dark “X” on their backs. Gray Treefrogs have mottled skin that can change color.
- Vocalization: Spring Peepers make a high-pitched “peep” sound. Gray Treefrogs make a short, bird-like trill.
Even though Gray Treefrogs can change color, they always have dark bands on their legs and a light-colored spot under each eye.
The best way to identify frogs is often by listening to their calls. Each species has its own unique song.
How are tree toads doing in Michigan?
Good news! Tree frogs are generally common and widespread across Michigan.
However, like all amphibians, they face a number of threats. The biggest threat to tree frog populations is habitat loss, especially the destruction and fragmentation of wetlands due to development. They’re also at risk from pollution, particularly pesticides and other chemicals that can contaminate their breeding pools and food sources.
Finally, climate change poses a long-term threat by altering wetland habitats and disrupting their breeding cycles.
Protecting wetlands is crucial for ensuring the survival of tree frogs, as these areas provide essential breeding and foraging grounds.
In Conclusion
Michigan’s tree frogs are remarkable amphibians that play an important role in our ecosystem. It’s important to know how to identify them, where they live, and what we can do to protect them.
So, next time you hear a chorus of croaks, take a moment to appreciate these tiny, amazing creatures and the vital role they play in Michigan’s biodiversity.