Dusky Gopher Frog

Range

Historically found throughout extreme southern Mississippi and across each border slightly into Louisiana and Alabama. It is now restricted to two isolated areas in Mississippi around Glen's Pond in Harrison County and Mike's Pond in Jackson County. It is critically endangered.

Habitats

Found in coastal temperate forests and freshwater marshes near the 2 ponds where it still exists (Glen's Pond and Mike's Pond). Often found inside gopher tortoise burrows.

Identification

A medium-sized frog ranging from grey to brown to green with dark spots all over its bumpy skin. It reaches a body length of about 3 inches and has noticeable dorsolateral skin folds. Its back is generally darker in color than its sides, and its hip bone hump is rather prominent.

Learn more with Schechter Natural History's Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians