Green Frog (Lithobates clamitans)
The Green Frog is a prominent amphibian native to eastern Canada. During the mating season, these frogs can be found near shallow ponds, lakes, rivers and swamps, where they spend most of their time in the water. While less vocal than their bullfrog cousins, they are a fascinating subject for wildlife enthusiasts.
Common Names
| 🇨🇦 | Green Frog |
| 🇫🇷 | Grenouille verte |
| 🇩🇪 | Grüner Frosch |
| 🇲🇽 | Rana verde |
Taxonomy
| Order | Anura |
| Family | Ranidae |
Characteristics
| Length | 7-10cm |
| Weight | 25-50g |
Explore More
📖 Wikipedia Page: For more information about this species.
🎧 Apple Podcast: About this species' biology, behavior and ecological importance.
Best Locations and Seasons for Sightings
Can be seen from late spring (June) through autumn along the shores of permanent ponds and lakes, though they’re often hard to spot outside the spring mating season—when their calls help you locate them. I saw my first Green Frog in Boisé Des Douze, St. Hyacinthe.
| Location | Spring | Summer | Autumn | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jardin Botanique de Montréal | x | x | - | - |
| Parc Angrignon | x | x | - | - |
| Parc Bernard-Landry | x | - | - | - |
| Parc Michel-Chartrand | x | - | - | x |
| Parc Mont Saint-Bruno | x | x | - | - |
| Parc de la Frayère | - | x | - | - |
| Parc Nature Pointe aux Prairies | x | - | - | - |
"x" indicates the species was observed, while "-" indicates no observation. Lack of observation doesn't necessarily imply that the species is absent. Data is derived from my park visit journals.
Identification and Similar Species
Green Frog (Lithobates clamitans) closely resembles the American Bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus). To tell them apart, I look at the back: in Green Frogs, the ridge behind the eye (the dorsolateral fold) runs straight along the sides of the back. In Bullfrogs, that ridge curves around the tympanum and does not extend down the back.
Captured Moments
Videos are hosted on YouTube. Click on a thumbnail to watch it.
All content on this page — including photos, videos, and field audio recordings — was created by Karl-Heinz Müller, a Montréal-based wildlife filmmaker, sound recordist, and photographer. Founder of MUUUH and Québec Sauvage, he has spent over a decade documenting Canada’s natural habitats through immersive soundscapes and wildlife films. Learn more about Karl-Heinz
Last updated: 2025-10-24