Blanchard's Cricket Frog

A small hylid frog typically measuring 0.8–1.5 inches (2–3.8 cm) in length. Dorsal coloration is highly variable, ranging from gray, tan, brown, or green, often with irregular darker blotches or a mottled pattern that provides effective camouflage. A distinct dark triangular mark is usually present between the eyes, and most individuals exhibit a prominent dark stripe extending from the snout through the eye and along the flank. Skin texture is slightly warty compared to other treefrogs. A pale or whitish stripe typically runs along the upper lip. Ventral surface is white or cream, sometimes with faint mottling on the throat. Hind limbs are long and slender, often marked with dark crossbands. Frequently associated with the presence of a dark, often continuous stripe along the inner thigh. Occupies a wide variety of habitats including the margins of ponds, lakes, streams, marshes, and ditches, as well as moist fields and grasslands, often favoring areas with sparse vegetation and exposed muddy or sandy substrates. Primarily insectivorous, feeding on small invertebrates. Highly terrestrial compared to many other hylids, often found along shorelines rather than in vegetation.

Call is a sharp, metallic, repetitive clicking or “ticking” note, often compared to the sound of tapping two pebbles together. Calls are short in duration, rapidly repeated in a steady series, and typically given during the day or night from the ground or low vegetation near water.

Similar species: Northern Cricket Frog (Acris crepitans) is morphologically similar but typically lacks a continuous dark stripe on the inner thigh and differs genetically and geographically; Green Treefrog (Hyla cinerea) has smooth skin, bright green coloration, and a bold white lateral stripe without a dark facial mask; Chorus Frogs (Pseudacris spp.) have smoother skin, more distinct dorsal striping, and lack the characteristic metallic clicking call.