Northwest Frog Species

The Northwest's wet climate provides an excellent setting for a variety of frog species. Frogs are plentiful in the region's forest areas, and the easiest way to spot these frog species is to search near rocks or streams at night. The four primary categories of frogs found in the Northwest are bell toads, tree frogs, true frogs and true toads.

  1. Bell Toads

    • The tailed frog is the only type of bell toad found in the Northwest. These frogs are 1 to 2 inches in length and are brown or dark green in color. Tailed frogs reside in high elevations and live in clear, cold streams.

    Tree Frogs

    • Tree frogs are the most vocal frogs, known for their signature croak. There are two different species found in the northwest: the Pacific tree frog and the Western chorus frog. Both species are approximately 1 to 2 inches long and vary widely in color. While these frogs enjoy ponds and swamps, they are extremely common in all areas of the Northwest.

    True Frogs

    • True frogs are plentiful in the Northwest and are generally larger than the other frog species. Eight different species reside in the region: red legged frog, foothill yellow legged, cascades frog, bullfrog, northern leopard frog, spotted frog, wood frog and green frog. These frogs can grow up to 8 inches long and are more colorful than other types of frogs.

    True Toads

    • The Western toad and the Woodhouse's toad are the two true toad species found in the Northwest. Both species grow up to 5 inches long. While the Woodhouse's toad is found throughout the region, the Western toad is now a protected species due to its declining population.