Did you know that tree frogs can make more than 100 different vocalizations? And that those vocalizations are used for a variety of purposes like communicating with other tree frogs attracting mates and defending territories?
If you’ve ever heard a tree frog make its distinctive “chirping” noise then you’ve experienced firsthand one of the ways that these amphibians communicate. But how do tree frogs make their noise?
It all starts with their vocal cords which are located in the larynx or voice box. The vocal cords are two thin stretchy membranes that vibrate when air passes through them. The muscles in the larynx can open and close the vocal cords which changes the pitch of the sound that the tree frog makes.
The pitch of a tree frog’s vocalizations is determined by both the size of the animal and the tension of the vocal cords. Larger tree frogs have longer vocal cords which produce lower-pitched sounds. And tighter vocal cords produce higher-pitched sounds.
To make its vocalizations a tree frog forces air from its lungs through its larynx and out its mouth or nose. As the air passes over the vocal cords they vibrate and produce sound.
The amplitude or loudness of a tree frog’s vocalizations is also determined by the larynx. The muscles in the larynx can open and close the vocal cords which changes the amount of air that passes over them. The more air that passes over the vocal cords the louder the sound.
So how do tree frogs make their different vocalizations? They do it by changing the tension of their vocal cords and the amount of air that passes over them. By changing these two things tree frogs can create a wide range of vocalizations from quiet grunts to loud piercing calls.
Now that you know how tree frogs make their noise you can better appreciate the next time you hear one “chirping” in the trees!
How does a tree frog make noise?
Answer 1: By using its vocal sacs to create a loud croaking noise
What is the main purpose of a tree frog’s vocal sacs?
Answer 2: They are used to attract mates and to warn other frogs of predators
How does the size of a tree frog’s vocal sacs affect the loudness of its croak?
Answer 3: The larger the vocal sacs the louder the croak.
What other purposes do tree frogs’ vocal sacs serve?
Answer 4: They also help the frog to breathe while it is swimming.
How do tree frogs use their vocal sacs to attract mates?
Answer 5: By inflating them and making a loud croaking noise which can be heard up to a mile away.
How do tree frogs use their vocal sacs to warn other frogs of predators?
Answer 6: By making a loud croaking noise that alerts other frogs to danger.
What is the main predator of tree frogs?
Answer 7: Snakes are the main predators of tree frogs.
How do tree frogs defend themselves against predators?
Answer 8: By using their camouflaged skin to blend in with their surroundings and by remaining still.
What is the average lifespan of a tree frog?
Answer 9: The average lifespan of a tree frog is 5 to 10 years.
How do tree frogs reproduce?
Answer 10: By laying eggs in water which hatch into tadpoles.
How long does it take for a tree frog egg to hatch?
Answer 11: It takes 7 to 10 days for a tree frog egg to hatch.
How long does it take for a tree frog tadpole to turn into a frog?
Answer 12: It takes 3 to 4 months for a tree frog tadpole to turn into a frog.
What do tree frogs eat?
Answer 13: Tree frogs eat insects such as crickets and spiders.
How often do tree frogs eat?
Answer 14: Tree frogs eat every day.
How does a tree frog’s diet change as it grows from a tadpole to a frog?
Answer 15: As a tree frog grows from a tadpole to a frog its diet changes from primarily plants to primarily insects.
