Amphibians
Green Treefrog
Dryophytes cinereus · also called green tree frogs
Clinging to a porch window on a warm southeastern evening, a green treefrog waits patiently near the light, its adhesive toe pads holding it firmly in place as it picks off insects drawn in by the glow.
Overview
The green treefrog, Dryophytes cinereus, is a bright, smooth-skinned amphibian native to wetland and forest edge habitat across a broad range of the southeastern United States. Its designation as the official state amphibian of both Georgia and Louisiana, distinctive loud bell-like call, and familiar habit of clinging to windows and porch lights make it one of the most recognisable frog species in the American Southeast.
A frog that has adapted to porch lights
Rather than relying only on natural vegetation, the green treefrog has learned to take full advantage of artificial lighting, turning a simple porch light into a reliable, human-provided hunting ground for insects.
Status
Least Concern — widespread and abundant across suitable wetland and forest edge habitat throughout the southeastern United States.
Green Treefrog: common questions
Why is the green treefrog often seen on windows and porch lights?
This species has adhesive toe pads that let it cling easily to smooth vertical surfaces, including windows and porch walls, and it is frequently drawn to artificial lights at night because those lights attract and concentrate the flying and crawling insects the species hunts, making brightly lit windows and porches convenient hunting grounds.
Why is the green treefrog the state amphibian of two different states?
This species was independently designated the official state amphibian of both Georgia and Louisiana, a recognition tied to its widespread presence and its loud, familiar calling chorus, which makes it one of the most recognisable and commonly encountered frog species across both states.
What does the green treefrog's call sound like?
A male of this species produces a loud, nasal, bell-like call, often given repeatedly and in large choruses alongside other calling males near water during warm, humid evenings, a sound many people across the southeastern United States closely associate with summer nights.
How can you identify a green treefrog?
Look for smooth, bright green skin, often marked with a pale cream or white stripe running along each side of the body, combined with the species' habit of clinging to smooth surfaces such as windows and porch lights using its adhesive toe pads.