Field Guide to Maryland's Frogs and Toads (Order Anura)

Northern Leopard Frog (Lithobates pipiens)
Photo of Northern Leopard Frog courtesy of Stephanie Desranleau
Former Name:
Size: 2 to 4 inches Record: 4 3/8 inches
Appearance: one of three frogs found in Maryland that has distinct spots on the back and 2 back ridges that run from just behind the eye all the way to the tail bone spots are not arranged in definite rows as they are in the Pickerel Frog but insides of the thighs are cream colored (not yellow as they are in the gray Treefrog) similar in appearance to the Southern Leopard Frog except that the Southern Leopard Frog has a white spot on the tympanum, or ear drum; the Northern Leopard Frog has no spot
Habitats: Photo of Habitat for Northern Leopard Frog courtesy of Rebecca Chalmers Any freshwater habitat, including lakes, ponds, streams, small wetlands, even backyard pools May move a far distance from water, especially in wet grasslands or woodlands When far from a water source, they will absorb dew from wet grass
How to Find: This frog is rarely found in Maryland; sightings have only occurred west of the Fall Line (roughly matched by I-95). Listen for its call that sounds like a squeaky door being slowly opened, followed by clucking. This is an introduced species.
Distribution in Maryland: This species has been introduced to Frederick County.
For More Information: Maryland Amphibian and Reptile Atlas (MARA) Database

Northern Leopard Frog (Lithobates pipiens)