Leopard frogs, which are also called meadow frogs and
grass frogs, are a collection of so-called true frog within the genus
Rana. Once abundant in North America and Canada, their population has
declined in recent years because of pollution and deforestation.
Leopard frogs are often used as environmental indicator species
because of their heightened sensitivity to chemical pollutants found
in the air and water, and they are commonly used as dissection
specimens in biology classrooms.
Leopard frogs are recognized by their green or brown
coloration with distinct light-edged dark spots across the back and
white underside. They also have a characteristic line of raised
glandular skin, called the dorsolateral ridge, extending from each eye
to the groin. Some species also have a light marking on the center of
their tympanic membrane. Males have two vocal sacs, located on both
sides of the body, used to attract mates and establish territory. The
adult ranges in size from about (2–5 in) in length, depending on the
species, with females generally larger than males.
During mating season, the female lays 3,000–6,000 eggs, with each
egg approximately 1.7 mm in diameter, in a large, flattened mass just
below water surface. These eggs will attach to the pond substrate, and
one month after the eggs are laid, tadpoles emerge approximately
65–83 mm in length. The leopard frog will reach sexual maturity
2–3 years after eggs are laid and have a lifespan