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Amphibian/Can you Identify Frogs?

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Expert: Nicole - 1/4/2009


Question

Frog or Toad
My wife was soaking a Christmas Cactus plant in the kitchen sink and as she moved the branches around she found what she thought was a growth on one of the limbs.  On second look it had eyes.  It is small about 1" long and almost as wide.  It is mainly white or gray with black dots and lines all over.  It did move slightly when I was trying to take a picture retreating back into the plant.  Picture attached.  I took more pictures if you want them.  We live in Maryland.  The plant was outside most of the summer and we had it inside since about September.  If you can not identify it, could you refer me to someone who might be able to help.  I would like to set it free, but I am afraid that putting it outside this time of year might kill it.

Answer
Thank you very much for the excellent picture, they are always helpful in identifying species. What you have found is a Grey Treefrog. They are fairly common all throughout the eastern US. The unfortunate thing is that with it being winter if you put it outside now, more than likely it will die as you feared. A local nature center may be able to keep the frog until spring if you cannot keep it. Hopefully this will help you out. If you have any other questions, feel free to let me know.

Nicole

Expertise

I can answer questions on housing, diet, breeding, trouble-shooting, and general care.

Experience

I run a reptile & amphibian rescue and have owned many types of amphibians. I have done amphibian population studies for the state of Vermont.

Education/Credentials
I am currently working towards my vet tech degree.

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