A frog in your pond

This picture shows an American green tree frog embracing a dandelion that has decided to bloom in autumn rather than spring. Home for this small climbing frog includes all of the U.S. Gulf Coast as well as along the southern half of the Atlantic seaboard. Southeast Missouri is at the northern edge of this small 2 1/2-inch frog's range.

The best place to find a green tree frog is on vegetation near a pond or lake shore, where it preys on insects. A white line running below the frog's eye from the mouth along the frog's side will help in its identification. Large toe pads help this frog cling to nearly anything, including window panes.

Tree frogs are sometimes called "rain frogs" because they often exhibit their well known call just before it rains. This delicate little frog can leap well over six feet, probably having no idea where it will land more often than not.

The dandelion is native to North America and is noted for growing where it is not wanted. American Indians have used the bitter-tasting dandelion for medicinal purposes for centuries.

Luck plays a big part in capturing a photo such as this, but this time watching carefully for small movements while walking slowly near a farm pond reaped a small reward. Short lenses and small critters can sometimes be as satisfying as long zoom lenses and large critters.

Through the Woods is a weekly nature photo column by Aaron Horrell.