Tree frog has many shades of green

The American green tree frog is native to the part of the U.S. known as the Deep South. Southeast Missouri is at the northwestern limit of this little frog's range.

Look for American green tree frogs from early spring to late autumn near lake edges and ponds with lush vegetation. As daytime temperatures fall, this frog's basic color turns from a deep green to a lighter yellow- green. If you catch one during this time of year and gently hold it in your hand for a few minutes, the warmth of your hand will likely cause the frog to change to a darker green.

This frog is much more active during wet weather. I found this one Tuesday afternoon, soon after a morning rain had stopped. It hopped onto the fallen yellow leaf of a sweet gum tree, with the reds of dogwood leaves in the background making for a good contrast of colors.

The American green tree frog grows to about 2 1/2 inches and will eat any insect it can catch.

Its life span in the wild is usually no more than 3 1/2 years. Many animals such as snakes, raccoons, hawks and fish will eat American green tree frogs.

During summer, this frog is often referred to as the "rain frog" because of its remarkable tendency to call or sing just ahead of a thunderstorm.

Through the Woods is a weekly nature photo column by Aaron Horrell. Find this column at semissourian.com to order a reprint of the photo. Find more work by him at the O'Tenem Gallery.