Arizona's WildLife

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Arizona Treefrog

Hyla wrightorum

Listen near streams at night

The Arizona treefrog is a small, green amphibian native to Arizona’s montane forests and riparian areas. It is most active during the monsoon season, when males produce distinctive calls at night to attract mates. This species prefers moist habitats such as ponds, streams, and wetland edges, where it feeds on insects and other small invertebrates. Arizona treefrogs are excellent climbers, often found on vegetation or tree trunks near water, and they play an important role in controlling insect populations. Their seasonal calls are a hallmark of Arizona’s monsoon nights, adding both sound and ecological richness to forested and riparian ecosystems.

Amphibian

Identification & Behavior

Key Features: Bright green color, small size, sticky toe pads

Size: 1–2 in

Behavior: Clings to vegetation, calls during monsoon rains

Diet: Insectivore

Activity Pattern: Nocturnal

Habitat & Distribution

Found in southeastern and central Arizona, particularly in the Sky Island mountain ranges such as the Santa Catalina, Huachuca, and Chiricahua Mountains. Prefers habitats near streams, springs, ponds, and moist riparian areas, often hiding under rocks or vegetation. Occurs at elevations from roughly 4,000 to 7,500 feet. Present in Coronado, Tonto, and Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests where suitable aquatic and riparian habitats exist.

Elevation Range: 5,000–8,000 ft

Seasonal Presence: Summer