Foothill Yellow-legged Frog
Rana boylii
A smallish frog with rough, granulated skin and coloration that matches its rocky surroundings. It averages 1.5-3.25 inches in length, has horizontal pupils, and is known…
How to identify
A smallish frog with rough, granulated skin and coloration that matches its rocky surroundings. It averages 1.5-3.25 inches in length, has horizontal pupils, and is known for jumping into rapidly moving water. It's named for yellow coloration occurring on the insides of the hind legs, and sometimes the abdomen. It often has faint banding on the legs, and a pale ventrum with dark mottling on the throat and chest. It has full webbing on the toes of the hind feet.
Range
Ranges from southwestern Oregon through most of northern and central California, mostly in coastal regions but also in the western foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Habitat
This species prefers the rocky edges of fast-flowing freshwater streams and rivers, where lots of sun is present.
Variations
Dorsum coloration ranges from shades of grey to green to brown to match the individual's habitat surroundings. Juveniles lack the yellow coloration.
Similar species
Most similar to the Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog (*Rana sierrae*) or Cascades frog (*Rana cascadae*).
Name and etymology
Boylii: Honoring C.C. Boyle.
More illustrations
Underside
At a glance
Size
5 to 9 cm
Range
Ranges from southwestern Oregon through most of northern and central California, mostly in coastal regions but also in the we…
Habitat
This species prefers the rocky edges of fast-flowing freshwater streams and rivers, where lots of sun is present.
Range map
Approximate range. © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap