Rana grylio

Scientific name. Rana grylio

Common Name. Pig Frog

General information. Rana grylio is nocturnal and usually difficult to approach. The pig frog is territorial and feeds primarily on crawfish, but eats minnows, snakes, and smaller frogs.

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

Diagnostic features. Hind feet are fully webbed (not so in R. catesbeiana) dorsolateral folds absent Narrow and pointed head Prominent tympanum

Coloration. Dorsal surface varies from olive to dark brown with prominent dark dorsal spots Ventral surfaces white or pale yellow with gray mottling on thighs.

General distribution. In North America, Rana grylio is found in the southern U. S., from South Carolina to east Texas.

Texas distribution. In Texas, Rana grylio is restricted to the southeastern corner of the state.

Habitat. Rana grylio is seen in large bodies of water, such as lakes and marshes amid floating vegetation.

Reproduction. Breeding in Rana grylio takes place from March to September.

Size. Rana grylio is a large frog species, reaching 8-13 cm (3.2-5.5 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.