The Chiricahua Leopard Frog (Lithobates [Rana] ^**** chiricahuensis) grows to about 10.9 cm (4.3 inches) in length, and is green or brown with dorsolateral folds and numerous, relatively small dark spots.

One of 6 or 7 leopard frog species in Arizona and New Mexico, the Chiricahua leopard frog is distinguished from other Southwestern leopard frogs by a combination of characters, including:

• a distinctive salt and pepper pattern on the rear of the thigh of adults and some juveniles;
• dorsolateral folds that are interrupted and inset towards the rear;
• stocky body proportions;
• eyes that are relatively high and upturned on the head; and,
• relatively rough skin on the back and sides.

 

**** The species genus was recently changed from “Rana” to “Lithobates". Crother, B.I. (ed.). 2008. Scientific and Common Names for Amphibians and Reptiles of North America North of México. Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles, Herpetological Circular No. 37:1-84.