Mountain Chorus Frog

Scientific Name: Pseudacris brachyphona
Size: 1.6-2 inches (4-5 cm) in length
PA Status: Species of special concern

Habitat Type:
Deciduous woodlands and upland wood areas. This species is not associated with water.

Colorations:

  • The dorsal background color ranges from tan to light brown with a dark brown to black markings that are variably shaped but commonly resembles the look of inverted parentheses that extends from the back of the head to the groin; along the sides of the body.
  • The head has a dark triagnle blotch located between the eyes.
  • The ventral is cream-colored

Characteristics:

  • Small species.
  • The body is robust.
  • The head is broad and flat with a blunt snout.
  • The eyes are large and positioned on the sides of the head.
  • The dorsal skin slightly rough.
  • The ventral skin is coarsely granular.
  • The fore legs are small and thin.
  • The hind legs are long and slender.
  • The toes have minimal webbing.
  • The toe tips have small well-developed disc.

Tadpole coloration and characteristics:

  • Small-sized. Average 1-3 cm
  • The dorsum and sides are dark brown and may have a metallic/bronze flecking.
  • The belly is bronze and iridescent.
  • The tail crest is moderately developed and translucent, with small dark spots and fleaks.

Confused with:

  • Western Chorus Frog

Coloration/Pattern Photos:
Adults
Mountain Chorus Frog - By: Tom Diez Mountain Chorus Frog - By: Tom Diez Mountain Chorus Frog - By: Tom Diez
Tadpoles
Eggs

Range Map:

References:

  • Hulse, C. and McCoy C. J. and Ellen Censky ,1998. Amphibians and Reptiles of Pennsylvania and the Northeast. 148-151pp.

Photo Credits:

  • Tom Diez