Species · GBIF taxon 2427573
European Tree Frog
Hyla arboreaAlso known as Common Tree Frog, European Green Tree Frog
European tree frogs spend their days clinging to sunlit leaves and brambles, relying on their brilliant green skin for near-perfect camouflage. During the spring breeding season, males gather in shallow ponds to produce an incredibly loud, rhythmic croaking that can be heard from over a kilometer away. As autumn approaches, they migrate to terrestrial overwintering sites, sheltering under log piles, rock crevices, or deep leaf litter.
ArborealVocalNocturnal
- diet
- Insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates
- family
- Hylidae
- threats
- Habitat fragmentation, drainage of breeding wetlands, and water pollution
- life Span
- 5 to 10 years
LC
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Many regional populations are declining rapidly due to wetland drainage, agricultural intensification, and habitat fragmentation.
Avoid disturbing breeding ponds in spring and never handle these frogs with dry or lotion-covered hands.- Listen for choruses: Scan sunny bramble bushes near ponds on warm spring nights when males call loudly.
- Look but do not touch: Their sensitive skin easily absorbs oils and chemicals from human hands.
- Watch the throat: Look for the large, inflatable vocal sac under the chin of calling males.