Gray Tree

A Gray Tree refers to several tree species within the genus Hyla, now Dryophytes, particularly Dryophytes chrysoscelis and Dryophytes versicolor. These are virtually indistinguishable frogs in the field, known as a cryptic species complex. They are native to eastern and central North America. The common name "Gray Treefrog" or "Gray Tree Frog" is applied to either species due to their highly variable coloration, ranging from gray to green to brown, often with darker blotches, depending on their environment and temperature.

The distinguishing characteristic between Dryophytes chrysoscelis (Cope's Gray Treefrog) and Dryophytes versicolor (Eastern Gray Treefrog) lies in their chromosome number and call. Dryophytes chrysoscelis is diploid, while Dryophytes versicolor is tetraploid. The call of Dryophytes chrysoscelis is a faster, harsher trill than the slower, more musical trill of Dryophytes versicolor. The calls are often described as diagnostic for identifying the two species in areas where they co-occur.

Gray Treefrogs are arboreal (tree-dwelling) and are typically found in woodlands, swamps, and near ponds and streams. They possess adhesive toe pads that allow them to climb on trees and other vegetation with ease. Their diet consists primarily of insects and other small invertebrates.