Squirrel treefrogs are among Florida’s most common native frogs, but their changing colors make them easy to overlook or misidentify.

Adults are usually only about one to one-and-a-half inches long and have smooth skin and a slender body.

They may be green, tan, gray or brown, sometimes with a pale stripe along the side.

When green, they often show a yellowish upper lip.

They are comfortable around people.

At night, squirrel treefrogs climb shrubs, trees and house walls to hunt insects attracted to lights.

During the day they may hide under loose bark, inside tree cavities or in other protected spaces.

Rain often brings them down toward temporary ponds and shallow water to breed.

The invasive Cuban treefrog creates a serious local identification and conservation problem.

Cuban treefrogs are much larger, generally have bigger toe pads and often have irregularly bumpy skin.

Squirrel treefrogs are small enough to become prey for Cuban treefrogs.

Research in Florida has found squirrel treefrogs particularly susceptible where invasive Cuban treefrogs become abundant.

That is one reason homeowners should identify frogs carefully before deciding an animal around the house is unwanted.

A tiny native treefrog should not be removed because it was mistaken for an invasive species.

Maintaining native shrubs, avoiding unnecessary pesticide use and keeping small water habitats free of pollutants can help support frogs and the insects they depend on.

The Wild Suncoast clue: small, smooth and variable in color often means squirrel treefrog; very large toe pads and a much bulkier body suggest Cuban treefrog.