Today is the third post in the series of frogs native to the US. Part 1 was on American Toads. Check it out here! Part 2 was on Cricket Frogs. Check it out here!
Today’s post we will see the tailed frogs.
Ascaphus Montanus – Rocky Mountain tailed frog
Image from Wikimedia Commons
Size-1.5″-2″
Description- Frogs are typically either gray or brown with gray, brown or yellow splotches. The Rocky Mountain tailed frog is unique as it has no external ear drum and it has a “tail” which the male frog will use during reproduction. This “tail” ensures successful fertilization in the fast-flowing stream habitat they reside in. Tadpoles in turn have a unique adaptation as well for the fast moving streams. The tadpoles possess large sucking mouth parts which are used to hang onto rocks to prevent from being swept downstream.
Image from ICUN Redlist
Frogs can be found in and along small cold mountain streams. Eggs are laid during late summer and tadpoles can take 1-4 years to metamorphose, depending on water temperature. Males do not vocalize, it has been thought that this was due to females not being able to hear them over the rushing water. These frogs .(1) (2) (3)
Ascaphus truei – Coastal tailed frog
Image from Conservation Fund – Brome McCreary
Size-1″-2″
Description- This frog varies in color and typically matches the rocks around the stream inhabited, usually olive, brown, gray or reddish with gray or yellow blotching. The coastal tailed frog males also have a tail which aids in fertilization of the eggs. In order to avoid predators, the coastal tailed frog will jump into the water and tuck in their limbs to allow the water to carry them downstream quickly.
Have you seen any of these tailed frogs where you live? Leave a comment & where you live if you have!
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The Frog Lady 
I never see frogs where I live, but recently a lizard has taken to living on our front porch. My wife is terrified of it, but I enjoy looking at the little critter when it comes out to bask in the sunlight.
Arlee Bird
A to Z Challenge Co-host
Tossing It Out
I have thought about getting a lizard but I don’t like crickets!
I’ve seen a frog where I live last spring/fall at our front porch. I freak out, so scared to step on it. Love the pics.
Yeah I always get worried that I will step on some frogs but they are pretty quick! Thanks for stopping by!
You’re welcome. love!