Gopher Frog
Lithobates capito
A stout, spotted upland frog that shelters in gopher tortoise burrows and breeds in isolated seasonal ponds.
Gopher Frogs live in fire-maintained sandhills, scrub, and pine flatwoods. They spend long periods in gopher tortoise burrows or other underground refuges.
Heavy seasonal rain triggers movements to fish-free breeding ponds. Protecting both uplands and the travel corridors to wetlands is essential.
Habitat:
Pine Flatwoods and Sandhills, Scrub and Dry Prairie, Freshwater Wetlands
Area / Range:
Florida Panhandle, North Florida, Central Florida
Diet:
Eats insects, spiders, worms, and other small invertebrates near burrows and wetland edges.
Behavior:
Mostly terrestrial and secretive. It shelters underground, moves during wet weather, and breeds in temporary ponds without predatory fish.
Nighttime, Dawn and Dusk
Active Times:
Best time to see:
Warm rainy nights near seasonal ponds and intact gopher tortoise habitat.
Florida Native Status:
Native
Conservation Status:
State-designated Threatened in Florida because of upland habitat and breeding-pond loss.
Safety Level:
Low
Safety Information:
Do not handle or move the frog. Keep pets away and avoid driving through wetland migration routes on rainy nights.
Benefits to Property:
Consumes insects and indicates healthy connected upland and seasonal wetland habitat.
Property Concerns:
No property damage. Pond filling, fish stocking, fire suppression, and soil disturbance can eliminate habitat.
Fun Fact:
- It frequently uses gopher tortoise burrows for shelter.
- Its breeding call sounds like a deep snore.
- Adults may travel substantial distances to seasonal ponds.
Wildlife Laws:
As a state-designated Threatened species, take, possession, sale, and intentional harm are restricted without authorization.
Identification:
Stocky frog with irregular dark spots, prominent raised folds along the back, a pale belly, and a deep snoring call during breeding.