Learn about the Frogs of Northwest Territories
Here is a list of frog species to watch in the Northwest Territories. Happy Listening!
Data provided by the Canadian Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Network
Canadian Toad
Scientific name: Anaxyrus hemiophrys
Classification: Toad
Description: This relatively small toad is either brown to grey-green or reddish with reddish warts surrounded by black spots. There is a light line down the centre of the back and the belly is pale with grey spots. It is distinguished by cranial crests which fuse to form a hump between the eyes. Two prominent tubercles on its hind feet are used for burrowing. Maximum adult size is only 7 cm.
Boreal/Western Toad
Scientific name: Bufo boreas
Classification: Toad
Description: This toad is usually green or brown with a light stripe down the back. Like all toads, it has a dry, warty skin. The warts may be reddish brown and are surrounded by black marks. Unlike other toads it has no cranial crests although it does have oval parotid glands. The belly is pale with dark mottling. Adults reach up to 12 cm in size.
Boreal Chorus Frog
Scientific name: Pseudacris maculata
Classification: Treefrog
Description: The Boreal Chorus Frog is a small, smooth skinned treefrog. Colour varies from green-gray to brown. There is a dark stripe through the eye and a white stripe along the upper lip. It is distinguished from most other treefrogs by the three dark stripes down the back. In some individuals the stripes are broken into dashes or dots. Maximum adult size is just under 4 cm.
Leopard Frog
Scientific name: Rana pipiens
Classification: True Frog
Description: A green or brown frog with large, light-edged spots. Leopard Frogs also have prominent light-coloured dorsolateral ridges and a white belly. They can grow to over 10 cm body length but this is quite rare. Adults are usually 5-8 cm.
Wood Frog
Scientific name: Rana sylvatica
Classification: True Frog
Description: This is a moderate sized, true frog with prominent dorsolateral ridges. It may be reddish, tan or dark brown with a dark mask that ends abruptly behind the tympanum. Some individuals have a light line down the middle of the back. There is a dark blotch on the chest near each front leg. The belly is white and there may be some dark mottling. The toes are not fully webbed. Adults may reach up to 8 cm.