Crawfish Frog

“Sometimes referred to as one of the most secretive frogs in North America, the Crawfish Frog (Rana areolata) spends most of its life underground in abandoned crayfish burrows, emerging only briefly during its 1–3-week breeding season each spring. Despite the males’ loud, roaring calls, this species is incredibly sensitive to light and movement. When approaching breeding aggregations, these frogs typically fall silent and retreat underwater, making them exceptionally difficult to observe or photograph in the wild.

Over the past two springs (2023 and 2024), Kaleb Banks and I have been conducting rigorous fieldwork to assess the status and distribution of Crawfish Frogs across Oklahoma. Even with our round-the-clock presence at breeding ponds, opportunities to capture these frogs in situ have been scarce.

This image shows a single male Crawfish Frog, frozen in place among aquatic vegetation. Just moments earlier, dozens of individuals had been heard calling across the wetland. But as we approached, they, of course, all fell silent and slipped beneath the surface—except for this one, who remained momentarily exposed. I managed to capture a quick photograph, and seconds later, he too had disappeared.

Crawfish Frogs are a species of conservation concern in all 13 states where they have been historically documented. Due to widespread population declines and, in some areas, local extirpation, the species has become a high conservation priority throughout its range.” – Owen M. Edwards

Thank you to Owen M. Edwards for sharing this striking photo of a Crawfish Frog with us. By capturing and sharing such a rare glimpse of this elusive species, you’re helping bring attention to a frog that many people may not even realize exists. To connect with Owen and see more of his work, find him on Instagram: @owenator1.