U.S. #5398
2019 55¢ Frogs – American Green Tree Frog
Value: 55¢ 1-ounce First-class rate (Forever)
Issue Date: June 22, 2019
First Day City: Detroit, MI
Type of Stamp: Commemorative
Printed by: Ashton Potter (USA) Ltd.
Printing Method: Offset
Format: Pane of 16
Self-Adhesive
Quantity Printed: 62,000,000
The squirrel tree frog's name comes from the call it makes, which sounds like a squirrel chattering. It is also called "rain frog" because it is commonly heard during or after a rainstorm.
A squirrel tree frog is small, only 1-1.5 inches long, and is usually bright green. However, it can change colors to yellowish brown or brown to blend in with its surroundings. These frogs live in the southeastern United States and were introduced to the Bahamas in the early 70s.
This small frog is found around wells, under the eaves of buildings, and near outside lighting at night. The squirrel tree frog stays in these areas so it can prey upon unsuspecting bugs that are attracted to the light. It is an aggressive predator and eats many different invertebrates. Some have even been spotted near cow dung, attacking insects that are attracted to manure.
The male frogs head toward water to mate from April to August. Females lay eggs in temporary water, such as ditches, puddles, and shallow ponds. These have less predators than other water sources. The eggs sink to the bottom and hatch within a month. The tadpoles transition to frogs within a few days. Due to the adaptability of this frog, it is a species of least concern and will be around for years to come.