Relict Leopard Frog
Lithobates onca
This spotted frog averages 1.7-3.4 inches in body length. It has smooth skin and distinct dorsolateral skin folds which are generally lighter in color than the rest of th…
How to identify
This spotted frog averages 1.7-3.4 inches in body length. It has smooth skin and distinct dorsolateral skin folds which are generally lighter in color than the rest of the dorsum. It has a pointed, medium-length snout and fully webbed hind toes. Its dorsum can be tan, olive, brown, or green, and is patterned with a moderate number of brown spots with dark borders. Its legs have very muted spots, which do not form bands. Its ventrum is pale and unmarked.
Range
Primarily found along the Colorado River in southeastern Nevada, but potential range also extends into northwestern Arizona and southwestern Utah.
Habitat
Most occur in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. They are primarily aquatic and inhabit freshwater springs and creeks in desert environments.
Variations
Spots are generally medium to dark brown, but background dorsal color ranges from tan to olive to green to brown.
Similar species
In its range, it is most likely to be mistaken for the lowland leopard frog (*Lithobates yavapaiensis*). The similar Rio Grande leopard frog (*Lithobates berlandieri*) has a neighboring range to the south, and the Chiricahua leopard frog (*Lithobates chiricahuensis*) is found further southeast.
Name and etymology
Onca: Latin for spotted cat, jaguar.
At a glance
Range
Primarily found along the Colorado River in southeastern Nevada, but potential range also extends into northwestern Arizona a…
Habitat
Most occur in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. They are primarily aquatic and inhabit freshwater springs and creeks in…
Guide
Reptiles and Amphibians of North America
Range map
Approximate range. © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap