Pig Frog
Lithobates grylio
The Pig Frog is a large, highly aquatic Florida frog named for the deep grunting call males make from marshes and ponds.
Pig Frogs inhabit permanent freshwater wetlands across Florida, including marshes, lakes, ponds, canals, and slow waterways.
Their low, repeated grunts are a distinctive part of Florida’s nighttime wetland soundscape. Clean water and vegetated shorelines provide feeding and breeding habitat.
Habitat:
Freshwater Wetlands, Lakes and Ponds, Rivers and Springs, Canals and Ditches
Area / Range:
Statewide
Diet:
They eat insects, crayfish, small fish, other frogs, and additional aquatic prey.
Behavior:
Pig Frogs spend most of their time in water among floating or emergent vegetation. Males call loudly at night during warm months.
Night, Dusk
Active Times:
Best time to see:
Warm evenings and nights around permanent ponds, marshes, canals, and floating vegetation.
Florida Native Status:
Native
Conservation Status:
Common native frog. Wetland drainage, pollution, disease, and loss of shoreline vegetation are continuing habitat concerns.
Safety Level:
Harmless
Safety Information:
Avoid handling frogs because their skin absorbs chemicals. Wash hands after accidental contact and keep lawn treatments away from water.
Benefits to Property:
They consume insects and aquatic prey and provide food for wading birds, snakes, alligators, and other wetland predators.
Property Concerns:
Their loud nighttime calls may be noticeable near ponds. They do not damage buildings or landscapes.
Fun Fact:
The call sounds like a short piglike grunt, which explains the common name.
Wildlife Laws:
Pig Frogs are native wildlife. Collection and harvest are subject to current Florida rules, licenses, seasons, methods, and protected-area restrictions.
Identification:
Pig Frogs are green, olive, or brown with irregular dark markings, a pointed snout, large eyes, and no prominent raised ridges running down the back.
Credits:
Facts: UF/IFAS Pig Frog. Images: Pig Frog observation and Pig Frog portrait.