Treefrogs

Hyla

Equipped with large suction pads at the tip of their toes, treefrogs have the unfroglike ability to climb vertical surfaces. Most of the 13 species are small (2 inches long or less) and even a leaf is strong enough to support the weight of one. Perched on vegetation near water, the males sing loudly at night or on cloudy, rainy days in spring. Their calls are dear and melodious. The females lay eggs that float at the surface in thin films, with several to several dozen eggs in each patch. Within a week, the eggs hatch into tiny tadpoles; within two months, the tadpoles transform into adults. Most adult treefrogs can change their color or pattern in response to variations in temperature, light, or humidity, although the process may take as long as an hour. The color changes occur in captive animals as well as wild ones, adding to the attractiveness of these diminutive creatures as terrarium pets. Prospective owners should be aware, however, that treefrogs require live insect food and a good deal of care to survive for any length of time in an artificial environment.The Treefrogs found in Southeast Georgia are the Spring Peeper, The Barking Treefrog and The Green Treefrog.