What marking is considered the single most reliable field mark for identifying the Wood Frog?
Answer
The conspicuous black mask encircling the eye
The most trustworthy feature for rapid identification of the Wood Frog in the field is the distinctive facial marking often described as a black mask or stripe. This dark band originates near the snout, traverses directly through the eye region, and continues backward across the tympanum, extending towards the shoulder area. Experts advise focusing on this highly visible feature first, as the overall body coloration can be highly variable due to environmental factors, making the mask a far more consistent indicator.
Related Questions
What is the maximum snout-vent length (SVL) recorded for an adult Wood Frog in metric units?What marking is considered the single most reliable field mark for identifying the Wood Frog?What is the technical term for the two prominent, raised skin folds running down the Wood Frog's back?How is the skin texture of the Wood Frog generally described compared to other terrestrial frogs?What physiological adaptation allows the Wood Frog to survive freezing solid during winter?What characteristic describes the hind feet webbing of the Wood Frog?What coloration generally characterizes the ventral side (belly and throat) of the Wood Frog?Which scientific name is also used to classify the Wood Frog, depending on the classification system?What distinguishes the juvenile Wood Frog's facial mask from that of a mature adult?What behavior makes the Wood Frog notable among woodland frogs immediately following the spring thaw?In addition to the main dark mask, what lighter marking is frequently found immediately above the dark mask on the Wood Frog's head?