Eleutherodactylus marnockii

Scientific name. Eleutherodactylus marnockii

Common Name. Cliff Chirping Frog

General information. Eleutherodactylus marnockii is nocturnal. This species can run, as well as leap and hop, to seek shelter and will quickly (and easily) slip into cracks to evade predators.

Protected status. The Cliff Chirping Frog is not a protected species in Texas and can be legally collected with a hunting license.

Diagnostic features. Flattened head and body, with a proportionately large head and a wide space between the eyes

Coloration. Dorsal coloration has a greenish ground color with brown mottling. Crossbar pattern is also present on hind limbs.

General distribution. In North America, Eleutherodactylus marnockii is found in south-central Texas.

Texas distribution. In Texas, Eleutherodactylus marnockii is restricted to the Hill Country and Edwards Plateau.

Habitat. Eleutherodactylus marnockii is frequently found in limestone cliff crevices and cracks.

Reproduction. Breeding in Eleutherodactylus marnockii peaks in April and May, but egg deposition may occur from February to December; females may lay eggs up to three times a year.

Size. Eleutherodactylus marnockii reaches an adult length around 2-4 cm (0.75-1.5 in).

Calls.

Map. Orange counties indicate new county records since previous Herps of Texas update in 1998; all other colored counties reflect known distribution prior to 1998 for species and/or subspecies. Map is based on museum voucher specimens.