Just Minding My Own Business

The gray tree frog or gray treefrog (Hyla versicolor) is a species of small arboreal frog native to much of the eastern United States and... more

by Barbara McMahon

Title

Just Minding My Own Business

Artist

Barbara McMahon

Medium

Photograph - Photography

Description

The gray tree frog or gray treefrog (Hyla versicolor) is a species of small arboreal frog native to much of the eastern United States and southeastern Canada.
It is sometimes referred to as the eastern gray tree frog, common gray tree frog, or tetraploid gray tree frog to distinguish it from its more southern, genetically disparate relative, the Cope's gray tree frog (Hyla chrysoscelis). It may sometimes be referred to as the North American tree frog by Europeans to distinguish it from their European tree frog
As the scientific name implies, gray tree frogs are variable in color owing to their ability to camouflage themselves from gray to green, depending on the substrate where they are sitting. The degree of mottling varies. They can change from nearly black to nearly white. They change color at a slower rate than a chameleon. Dead gray tree frogs and ones in unnatural surroundings are predominantly gray. They are relatively small compared to other North American frog species, typically attaining no more than 1.5 to 2 in (3.8 to 5.1 cm). Their skin has a lumpy texture to it, giving them a warty appearance.

Uploaded

October 7th, 2013