Amphibians, Treefrogs (Hyla)
Equipped with large suction pads at the tips of their toes, treefrogs have the unfroglike ability to climb vertical surfaces. Most of the species are small (2 inches long or less), and a leaf is strong enough to support the weight of one. Perched on vegetation near water, the males sing loudly at night or cloudy, rainy days in spring. Their calls are clear and melodious.
The females lay eggs that float at the surface in thin films, with several to several dozens eggs in each patch. Within a week, the eggs hatch into tiny tadpoles; within two months, the tadpoles transform into adults. Most adult treefrogs can change their color or pattern in response to variations in temperature, light, or humidity, although the process may take as long as an hour.
The color changes occur in captive animals as well as wild ones, adding to the attractiveness of these diminutive creatures as terrarium pets. Prospective owners should be aware, however, that treefrogs require live insect food and a good deal of care to survive for any length of time in an artificial environment.
Green Treefrog
(Hyla cinera)
Photo credit: Gerald and Buff Corsi
California Academy of Sciences
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Squirrel Treefrog
(Hyla squirella)
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Pacific Treefrog
(Hyla regilla)
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Species of Treefrogs (Hyla) include:
Hyla regilla (Pacific Treefrog)
Hyla squirella (Squirrel Treefrog)
Hyla crucifer (Spring Peeper)
Hyla versicolor (Eastern Gray Treefrog)
Hyla gratiosa (Barking Treefrog)
Hyla andersonii (Pine Barrens Treefrog)
Hyla avivoca (Bird-voiced Treefrog)
Hyla cinerea (Green Treefrog)
Hyla arenicolor (Canyon Treefrog)
Hyla femoralis (Pinewoods Treefrog)
Hyla femoralis (Pinewoods Treefrog)
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