Rana iberica Boulenger, 1879

Size

The Iberian frog (Rana iberica Boulenger, 1879) can reach a maximum length of about 7 cm (2.8 in), with a more typical adult size of 5 cm (2.0 in). Females are generally larger than males.

Tympanum Description

The tympanum, visible just behind the eye, has a diameter around half that of the eye.

Dorsolateral Fold

A distinct ridge called the dorsolateral fold runs from the side of the head to the groin; this feature separates the Iberian frog from the common frog.

Skin Texture

Its skin is smooth with fine granulations.

Body Coloration

Body coloration is highly variable, with base shades most often being olive, reddish, or greyish-brown, and darker markings are sometimes present.

Facial Markings

A dark streak runs between the nostril and the eye, and a thin white line marks the upper lip.

Leg Markings

Dark brown barring sometimes appears on the hind legs.

Hind Feet Webbing

The hind feet are more fully webbed than those of the common frog.

Underside Appearance

The underside is pale, and may sometimes have darker spots, but the center of the throat has no spots.

Call Timing

The Iberian frog has a distinctive call, which is most often produced at night.

Call Characteristics

The call sounds like "rao-rao-rao" and is produced at a rate of roughly three calls per second.

Species Endemic Range

This species is endemic to Portugal, and north-western and central Spain.

Altitude Range

It is a mountain species that has been recorded at altitudes up to 2,425 m (7,956 ft).

Distribution in Portugal

It occurs across the northern half of Portugal.

Distribution in Spain

In Spain, it is found in the Galicia region, western León, and north-western Zamora, with isolated separate populations in mountainous areas of central Spain.

Preferred Habitats

It prefers habitats including slow-moving streams and rivers with overhanging vegetation, ponds, and glacial lakes.

Sympatric Species

It overlaps in range with the agile frog (Rana dalmatina), Perez's frog (Pelophylax perezi), and the common frog (Rana temporaria).