Southern Leopard Frog
Latin Name: Lithobates sphenocephalus
Species: Amphibian
Conservation Status: S4-5 - Secure
Southern leopard frogs have irregular dark spots on their back, earning them their name. Their body can reach nearly 5 inches long and has a white belly. Two light lines run on a ridge down their back and a thick light line runs along the top of their mouth. Their tympanum (ear drum) has a light spot in the center.
Range & Habitat (map)
Southern leopard frogs have a large range, reaching from south Florida as far north as parts of New York and Iowa and as far west as central Texas. They can often be found in or near shallow freshwater areas.
Diet
Southern leopard frogs will eat a variety of aquatic and terrestrial insects. They are even known to eat crayfish. Tadpoles eat algae, plankton, and small aquatic plants.
Life History
Southern leopard frogs are mainly terrestrial during their life but move to aquatic breeding sites in response to rain. With moderate temperatures, they will breed year-round but breed most commonly from fall through the spring. Females lay 1,000-1,500 eggs in large spherical masses attached to vegetation. Tadpoles may take up to 3 months to develop before going through metamorphosis.
Significance
Animals like frogs and toads are important indicators of the health of their environment because of their permeable skin. Their skin absorbs oxygen and water, also making them vulnerable to toxins in the environment. If an area becomes polluted, frogs and toads are often some of the first animals to be impacted.
Threats & How You Can Help
Southern leopard frogs do not face significant threats but may be over-collected in some areas for use as fish bait or classroom specimens.