General Description: Northern Leopard Frogs (Lithobates pipiens) are slender, medium-sized frogs with a relatively long, pointed nose and dark spots (brown or black) on the dorsal surfaces (back, sides, and legs). They also have conspicuous light-colored ridges (dorsolateral fold) on the sides of the back and a light-colored line on the upper lip. They have two color phases: green and brown, but the belly is light (white or cream) and may have some speckling.

Taxonomy: Order Anura (Frogs and Toads); Family Ranidae (True Frogs). Formerly Rana pipiens.

Technical Description: Body size large (to 4.5 in.). Dorsal color green or brown. Dorsal spots well defined, dark, round or oval. Ventral color light. Upper jaw with light stripe. Dorsolateral fold light-colored, well defined, continuous, and straight (not angled inwards). In males, paired vocal sacks expand over the front feet.

Diet: Insects.

Habitat: Desert riparian habitats along permanent streams, springs, and water impoundments into the mountains.

Range: The species occurs throughout most of the U.S., but not in the southeast or the Pacific states. Northern Leopard Frogs occurs near water sources throughout much of Nevada (not so much in the southern-most deserts), Utah, northern Arizona, and points north and eastward.

Breeding: Breeds spring to early summer.

Similar Species: Lowland Leopard Frogs are stockier and paler. Relict Leopard Frogs are smaller with shorter legs; spotting reduced near the head; and underside of limbs with yellow or yellow-orange.

Comments: Although some amphibians taste bad to help deter predators, Northern Leopard Frogs rely on speed and agility to avoid predators. Mammals, birds, fish, and reptiles feed on Northern Leopard Frogs. If caught, they may let out a scream.