05/17/2026
Welcome back to ! This week, we're showcasing the Florida Bog Frog and their funny feet. 🐸💚
The Florida bog frog, or the Lithobates okaloosae, is a rare species of frog found only in western Florida. The frog inhabits a total area of less than 20 km2, and about 90% of its range lies within Eglin Air Force Base. Does that name sound familiar? It should! Because the Eglin Air Force Base is same base where our endemic friend, the Okaloosa darter, lives too! You can see our post about the Okaloosa darter here : https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1KniXvhSbG/.
The Florida bog frog differs from other American frogs by reduced webbing of their feet. Around three phalanges of the 4th toe are free of webbing and at least two phalanges of all other toes are free. It's the only frog in Florida who can give you a true high five!
Like most endemic animals in Florida, not much is known about the Florida Bog Frog. In fact, we found these guys on accident. They were discovered in 1982 by State of Florida herpetologist Paul Moler, while conducting surveys for the Pine Barrens Treefrogs! However, we do know that these guys prefer relatively open mucky areas that are thickly vegetated with low-lying plants, like backwater streams. They also seem to be especially fond of areas dominated by sphagnum.
The main threat to the Florida bog frog is the degradation of its habitat. Fire suppression makes sure the low lying plants overgrow and take over the streams, changing the hydrology from bog to puddle. Other common issues contribute as well, like invasive plants and animals, and road building. You can help the Florida Bog Frog by supporting prescribed burns by engaging in education, assisting in local planning, and advocating for fire as a natural resource management tool.
Photo by Evan Grimes
