Identify This Frog

One of the nice things about commuting by bicycle, is that it makes it easier to be aware of my surroundings, as I travel the well-worn path between home and work. I am more likely to see and acknowledge the people who are outside for a walk or other activities, the trees, lawns, and houses I pass, and the astonishing array of little treasures which seem to accumulate by the side of the road. It is much easier to investigate these while commuting on bicycle than it is in a car, or even while bicycling for sport; I have a great collection of Happy Meal toys, coffee cups, make-up, work gloves, random bits of broken electronics, small hand tools, and even some jewelry and coins.

One of the sad aspects of bicycling is seeing the animals killed by other vehicles I share the road with. Most of these are gruesome squirrels and wood chucks, but there are also on occasion tragically beautiful song birds, snakes, and turtles. One time I came across a mysterious pair of fresh mink pelts (perhaps they fell out of a trapper's truck?).

Last week I saw a species of frog I do not recall seeing before, and I wonder if any of our readers can identify it. It was two to three inches long, with a very pale green back, and arrestingly beautiful, neon gold hind legs.

If you know what it is, let us know in the comments. Bonus points for elucidating the purpose of flashy gold thighs!