Note: Most of these are very large images, so that you can see all the detail in the photo. I have cropped many of these pictures to help reduce the size of the image, but have not resized anything. Most of these pictures are in a ratio of size suitable for desktop backgrounds. (4:3 ratio)
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This is only the second Leopard frog I have ever seen, and the first one that I have photographed with my digital camera. Once the most common frog in Michigan, their population dropped drastically in the 70s for reasons unknown. Although they can be found throughout the state, they are no longer a common sight.
Leopard Frog, head-on view. I should mention that photographing the frogs in these different poses is easier with the more tame frogs, like wood frogs, who just sort of sit after being caught. The tiny western chorus frogs are probably the hardest, as they jump like crazy after being caught. Leopard frogs and green frogs are patient like wood frogs, but if they suddenly get the urge they can take off in a hurry with their large and powerful legs.
Another head-on view, this time on moss. During the time I spent taking these photos I learned that the Leopard frogs do not like to be held in such a way that they feel any sensation on their backs. If they do they will start making a call that sounds like quiet creaking door. It was not real loud, I would assume their mating call, which is also supposed to sound like a creaking door is much louder.
Leopard frog sits on moss.
Birds eye view of Leopard frog. While some birds might find this frog a tasty meal, the Michigan largest frog, the bullfrog will sometimes turn the tables and eat small birds if the occasion presents itself. I have never found a bullfrog, but if I ever do I will be sure to add the photos!
Side view of Leopard frog on log.
A similar side view of Leopard frog on log.
Smiling Leopard frog. The way that frogs mouths are curved, taking a head on picture from above the frog gives the appearance of a smiling frog, while shooting a picture below the frog creates a sort of frown appearance.
Side view of Leopard frog on moss.
Side view of Leopard frog next to ferns just starting to come up.
Leopard frog looking at something.
Yet another side view of the Leopard frog.
