Rare, Adorable Visitor Was Captured In Western New York

How many different frogs are in New York State? What is the difference between a tree frog, a toad, and a regular frog? Our kids were curious when they captured this little hopper, and as much as they wanted it to be our new pet, we had to let it go.

School starts soon for most kids here in Western New York, and although the kids may not love the idea of the back-to-school routine, we as parents are pretty excited for it. But the learning has not stopped for kids, and summer may offer some of the best hands-on learning that kids can have. At least that's what I strive for.

Rare, Adorable Visitor Was Captured In Western New York, KEEP SCROLLING ⬇️⬇️⬇️

The list of outdoor adventures is endless. Growing up in Western New York, kids are exposed to so many things in the outdoors that kids of a similar age might not get in other parts of the country. For example, kids in southern states might never understand how it can be 70 degrees one day and you will have a snow day off from school the next. Those of us raising kids along the Great Lakes fully understand that it can happen, and the snow offers additional outdoor adventures for the kids!

While taking a walk/bike ride with the kids this week, our sons found a new friend that quickly became the highlight of the day and a chance to learn about amphibians.

According to most of the people that we asked, this little creature seems to be a tree frog. New York State has one type of tree frog that can change colors! We do have plenty of toads and other types of frogs in the yard. However, finding a tree frog like this was rare for us, even though they are one of the most common you can find in the state.

In a story from ESF.edu, it is explained that: "The only true tree frog of New York, the gray treefrog, is common over the entire region. It is most often observed in late spring and early summer when the males make their characteristic loud trilling calls. Calling sites are usually in the lower branches of trees near the water's edge".

As we move from summer to fall, there will be plenty of new and exciting adventures to take advantage of! Who knows what the next hands-on learning opportunity will be!