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Tree frog

Tree frogs are a diverse, informal group of frogs that are typically adapted for life in trees or other vegetation.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Tree frogs are a diverse, informal group of frogs that are typically adapted for life in trees or other vegetation. The term refers to more than 800 species across several frog families, with the family Hylidae often called the "true" tree frogs. Tree frogs occur on all continents except Antarctica.

Definition

Tree frog is a broad common name for frogs that live in or use trees and other elevated vegetation. It is applied to species in several families, not just one taxonomic group.

Classification

Tree frogs are frogs in the order Anura. The family Hylidae contains many of the best-known species and is often called the "true" tree frogs.

Adaptations

Tree frogs commonly have adhesive toe pads and other climbing adaptations that help them grip leaves, branches, and other surfaces.

Distribution and habitat

Tree frogs are widespread across the world and occur on all continents except Antarctica. Many species live in tropical or subtropical forests, but habitats vary by species.

Key facts

  • Tree frog is a common name for many frog species, not a single species.
  • Many tree frogs are arboreal, spending much of their lives in trees or vegetation.
  • The family Hylidae is commonly described as the "true" tree frog family.
  • Tree frogs have evolved climbing adaptations such as adhesive toe pads.
  • They are found on every continent except Antarctica.
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Canadian context

Some tree frog species occur in Canada, including the gray tree frog, which is found in parts of southeastern Canada.[14]

Frequently asked questions

What is a tree frog?
A tree frog is a frog commonly adapted for life in trees or other vegetation. It is a general name, not a single species.
How many tree frog species are there?
There are more than 800 species commonly referred to as tree frogs.
Are all tree frogs in the same family?
No. Tree frogs belong to several frog families. The family Hylidae is often called the "true" tree frogs.
Where do tree frogs live?
Tree frogs occur on all continents except Antarctica and live in a wide range of habitats, especially wooded and tropical areas.
What adaptations help tree frogs climb?
Many tree frogs have adhesive toe pads and other features that help them cling to vegetation and other surfaces.

References

  1. National Wildlife Federation — https://www.nwf.org/Educational-Resources/Wildlife-Guide/Amphibians/Tree-Frogs
    Supports: Tree frogs are a diverse family of amphibians with over 800 species.
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/tree-frog-amphibian-group
    Supports: Tree frogs comprise more than 800 species, occur on all continents except Antarctica, and include the family Hylidae as the most numerous true tree frogs.
  3. A-Z Animals — https://a-z-animals.com/animals/frog/10-incredible-tree-frog-facts/
    Supports: Tree frogs have adaptations for climbing such as adhesive toe pads and are found on every continent except Antarctica.
  4. Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute — https://nationalzoo.si.edu/animals/gray-tree-frog
    Supports: Gray tree frogs occur in southeastern Canada and parts of the eastern United States, with climbing adaptations.