If you’re planning your next vacation to Hawaii, perhaps you were wondering how many types of frogs are there in Hawaii.
Perhaps frogs aren’t the first thing on your mind when you think about visiting Hawaii, but if you do want to spot some native wildlife during your trip, frogs are one of the most interesting animals you could see.
There are over 7 different types of frogs in Hawaii. They can be found in various climates throughout the state.
1. Green Frog
Green frogs are types of frogs in Hawaii. They are often found near waterfalls, streams, or other bodies of water with a lot of vegetation. The green frog is one only native frog species to inhabit all the major Hawaiian Islands.
They can be identified by their dark green to a brownish color with light-colored flecks or blotches on their backs. This coloration can vary depending on how dry or wet their habitat is at any given time.
Green frogs grow to about four inches long as adults and can weigh up to two pounds when fully grown. Their call is described as a short and low whistle, which they use to warn others about predators nearby.
2. American Bullfrog
The American bullfrog is the largest frog species on Earth. It can grow up to 12 inches long and weigh 2 pounds. These frogs are found across North America, Central America, and parts of South America.
Also, they are considered generalist frogs because they eat anything they can find.
The American bullfrog is native to North America and has been around since the Pleistocene era. They were originally found all over the United States until invasive species like the cane toad reached their territory.
3. Wrinkled Frog
The Wrinkled Frogs is also one of the types of frogs in Hawaii. Wrinkled frogs are semi-aquatic, meaning they spend a lot of time on land and live near water. They are mostly nocturnal and live in forests, grasslands, and streams throughout the islands.
These frogs have light brown or tan skin with darker blotches that help camouflage them from predators during the day.
The Wrinkled Frog is endangered and was one of the first species to be listed as such in 1978.
4. Cuban Treefrog
One of the most common types of frogs in Hawaii is the Cuban tree frog. They are usually found near or around water, requiring a moist environment to survive.
The Cuban tree frog can be found on every island except for Kauai and Niihau, so it is possible that there is more than one type of frog that lives on those two islands.
One way to tell if you have found a Cuban treefrog is by looking at the coloration. The males have a black head and back with greenish-brown stripes down their back and sides. Females will have brownish-gray bodies with dark spots on their backs and sides.
5. Greenhouse Frog
The Greenhouse frog, also known as the green tree frog, is native to Southeast Asia. It was introduced to Hawaii for human consumption and has since adapted very well to its new environment.
These frogs are primarily active during the day and can be found on or near water sources such as streams and ponds.
They typically eat anything they can find, including insects, small mammals, reptiles, birds, eggs, and other amphibians.
6. Common Coqui
The coqui is among the most common types of frogs in Hawaii, and their calls are one of the most recognizable sounds in Hawai’i. They are not native to Hawai’i, but humans introduced them sometime in the 1900s.
The name coqui was given to them by early residents because they sounded like little frogs croaking or conquering.
The coqui can be found all over the island and can survive up to 2,000 meters above sea level. They make their homes by burrowing into plants and under rocks and logs during the day, but at night they come out to chirp their mating song.
7. Green and Black Poison Dart Frog
The Green and Black Poison Dart Frog is the only poisonous frog among the types of frogs in Hawaii. These frogs get their name from the bright green and black coloration on their backs.
They are very small frogs, growing to be no more than an inch long, but they can still pack quite a punch! The poison from this frog is fatal if ingested by most animals.
If you’re lucky enough to find one, it’s best not to touch it, as the skin secretes toxins that will make your skin burn for hours.
Conclusion
Hawaii has some of the most diverse wildlife in the world, and amphibians are no exception. The state is home to kinds of frogs, some of which have unique capabilities that allow them to thrive in Hawaii’s climate and natural environment.
Here are a few of the types of frogs in Hawaii.