A tiny frog of central US wetlands. Similar to northern cricket frog but considered a distinct species since 2009. Populations declining at northern range edge.

Native status: Native to upper Midwest; declining

§ Quick facts

SizeBody 1.6–3.3 cm
Weight1–5 g
LifespanWild 1–4 years
OrderAnura
FamilyHylidae

§ Encyclopedia

Blanchard's cricket frog is a species of frog in the family Hylidae. It is a small, dark colored frog that is threatened or endangered in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Studies have been done to see why the population of the frog is beginning to decrease in those states. Blanchard's cricket frogs are commonly found in wetlands, ponds, and/or near row crop agriculture. The average life span for this frog is about one year, which is why the species is considered to be short-lived. Little is known about the interactions and basic ecology, even though populations are decreasing. Blanchard's cricket frog was formerly considered to be a subspecies of the northern cricket frog.

Source: Wikipedia — Blanchard's cricket frog Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Tiny brown to grayish frog; distinctive long warty back, dark "Y" or triangle marking between eyes; relatively long legs.

Similar species. Northern Cricket Frog (eastern range; very similar). Spring Peeper (cleaner pattern).

Voice. Series of metallic clicks like pebbles tapping; chorus distinctive.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Small insects, spiders.

Behavior. Small frog of midwest grassland pond edges. Population declines documented across upper Midwest; causes include wetland loss, pesticide runoff, and unknown stressors.

§ Range

Central US

§ Habitat

Pond edges with abundant vegetation

§ Threats

Wetland loss, pesticide runoff, ranavirus, mysterious northern declines.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the blanchard's cricket frog is currently classified as Near Threatened.

§ What helps

Protect pond-edge vegetation. Skip lawn pesticides.

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§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • AmphibiaWeb
  • USGS PWRC
  • State wildlife agencies
  • IUCN Red List 2014