A DIFFERENT SORT OF TRILL: THE HYLA VERSICOLOR OR THE COLOR CHANGING TREEFROG

By Romey Swanson, Plateau Products and Services Field Biologist

While most nature lovers intently scan the trees for signs of nests and trilling birds, the herpetologists among us are looking for something less feathery, but no less interesting. The gray treefrog, Hyla versicolor, makes its home in the eastern Edwards Plateau herpetofauna (collective name for reptiles and amphibians). These treefrogs typify the classic "treefrog" body type with a tapered waist, long legs, and sticky toe pads. They can be identified visually by a robust and warty appearance, bright yellow skin hidden within the armpit and groin, and a conspicuous light spot below each eye. Although variable, the majority of these frogs will have a pronounced marbled appearance, but don't look for a standard base color because, much like the chameleons, gray treefrogs possess the distinct ability to change colors from off-white to slate gray to dark green and every color in between to serve as camouflage and reduce the risk of predation.Gray treefrogs can also be identified audibly by there unique frog call (much like species specific birdsongs). When calling for mates, males produce a short yet explosive trill. Although considered arboreal (lives in trees), treefrogs can be found closer to the ground during the breeding season (early spring to mid-summer). They prefer shaded woodlands with semi-permanent or vernal water sources. It is this habitat preference that often attracts gray treefrogs to the sides of houses and potted plants of well watered neighborhoods within Central Texas woodlands.

Article photo: The Hyla versicolor possesses the distinct ability to change colors from off-white to slate gray to dark green and every color in between.