Dryophytes gratiosus, commonly called the barking treefrog, Florida treefrog or giant treefrog, is a large treefrog native to the southeastern United States. Noted for its loud, barking call and vivid green coloration, this species occupies a variety of wetland and forested habitats and is an important component of amphibian communities in its range. For general information see species overview.

Description

Adults are among the largest North American treefrogs. Males typically measure about 4.9–7.0 cm and females roughly 5.0–7.0 cm in snout–vent length. The dorsal coloration ranges from bright to dark green and often features irregular dark spots or blotches. A light stripe sometimes separates dorsal and lateral surfaces. The skin is smooth, and the species has large toepads adapted for climbing. Its distinctive call has earned it the common name "barking" treefrog.

Distribution and habitat

Dryophytes gratiosus occurs throughout the southeastern United States, extending northward to New Jersey and west to parts of Kentucky and Mississippi, with strong populations in Alabama and Florida. It prefers pine flatwoods, cypress swamps, marsh edges, and temporary pools where breeding occurs. See a regional summary at range information and a northern-range note at New Jersey records.

Behavior and reproduction

Primarily nocturnal, barking treefrogs are active climbers but descend to breed in shallow, often ephemeral water bodies. Males call from vegetation or branches overhanging water to attract females; the call is loud and barking or quacking in character. Eggs are deposited in still or slow-moving water where tadpoles develop. Seasonal activity and breeding times vary by latitude and rainfall patterns.

Identification, similar species and taxonomy

This species can be confused with other large green treefrogs; key identifiers include size, spot patterning, toepad size, and the vocalization. It was formerly placed in the genus Hyla and is now classified as Dryophytes gratiosus in many modern treatments. For comparison with related frogs see identification guide and taxonomic notes.

Conservation and significance

While not considered among the most threatened amphibians, local populations can be affected by wetland loss, pollution, and disease. Protecting breeding habitats and maintaining hydrological regimes are important for their persistence. Further resources and conservation status summaries can be found at conservation resources and regional assessments.

  • Key traits: large treefrog, green with spots, loud barking call.
  • Habitat: swamps, marsh edges, pine flatwoods, ephemeral ponds.
  • Notes: active at night, breeds in standing water, climbs vegetation.