Wood Frog (Lithobates sylvaticus)
The Wood Frog is a fascinating amphibian, notable for being one of the first frog species to emerge in spring. This remarkable species possesses freeze-tolerance capabilities and shows a preference for vernal pools during breeding season. Their early emergence and unique adaptations make them an intriguing subject for wildlife observation.
Common Names
| 🇨🇦 | Wood Frog |
| 🇫🇷 | Grenouille des bois |
| 🇩🇪 | Waldfrosch |
| 🇲🇽 | Rana de bosque |
Taxonomy
| Order | Anura |
| Family | Ranidae |
Characteristics
| Length | 5-8cm |
| Weight | 10-15g |
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
My first observation of this species has been a few years back in Parc Nature Pointe aux Prairies early spring in a pool which still was partially frozen. I returned to the same place on several occasions around the same month. In April 2022, I finally encountered them again and recorded a video.
| Location | Spring | Summer | Autumn | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parc Michel-Chartrand | 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
The dark eye mask is a distinctive characteristic of this species. This mask, resembling a robber's mask, extends from the eye to the base of the front leg and makes the Wood Frog easily distinguishable from other local frog species.
Captured Moments
Videos are hosted on YouTube. Click on a thumbnail to watch it.
Advertisement Call Recorded 2022-04-15 in Parc nature de la Pointe-aux-Prairies
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: 2025-10-15