Southern Leopard Frog
Lithobates sphenocephalus
The Southern Leopard Frog is a spotted, long-legged native found around Florida ponds, marshes, and wet grasslands.
The Southern Leopard Frog is a spotted, long-legged native found around Florida ponds, marshes, and wet grasslands.
A pointed-nosed frog with large dark spots bordered in pale color, prominent ridges down the back, and a light spot on the eardrum.
Forages on land near water and escapes with long leaps. Males give chuckling and groaning calls from shallow wetlands.
Avoid handling unless necessary. Amphibians absorb substances through their skin and are sensitive to lotions and chemicals.
Do not collect animals from protected lands and follow current rules for wildlife possession. Protect breeding wetlands and avoid chemical runoff.
Habitat:
Freshwater Wetlands, Lakes and Ponds, Rivers and Springs, Canals and Ditches
Area / Range:
Statewide
Diet:
Insects, spiders, worms, and other small invertebrates.
Behavior:
Forages on land near water and escapes with long leaps. Males give chuckling and groaning calls from shallow wetlands.
Nighttime, Dawn, Dusk
Active Times:
Best time to see:
Wet evenings and the cooler breeding season near shallow water
Florida Native Status:
Native
Conservation Status:
Least Concern
Safety Level:
Safe
Safety Information:
Avoid handling unless necessary. Amphibians absorb substances through their skin and are sensitive to lotions and chemicals.
Benefits to Property:
Consumes insects and serves as both predator and prey in healthy pond ecosystems.
Property Concerns:
Pesticides, fish introductions, drainage, and mowing wet edges can reduce breeding habitat.
Fun Fact:
It often travels farther from water than many frogs and can make powerful leaps when startled.
Wildlife Laws:
Do not collect animals from protected lands and follow current rules for wildlife possession. Protect breeding wetlands and avoid chemical runoff.
Identification:
A pointed-nosed frog with large dark spots bordered in pale color, prominent ridges down the back, and a light spot on the eardrum.