I encountered the Pine Barrens Treefrog only once, in the South Carolina Sandhills. Despite many years studying amphibians, seeing this highly localized species in the wild was a rare and memorable experience. Its narrow habitat requirements limit its distribution, and its vivid green coloration, pale side stripe, and orange feet give it an almost jewel-like appearance.

In On Hand, I rendered my hand in graphite while portraying the frog in colored pencil. The contrast emphasizes both the animal’s brilliant color and its delicate presence. The title is literal, but it also suggests the responsibility people share for protecting the specialized habitats on which such species depend.

The drawing reflects my field experience as a herpetologist and my admiration for small animals whose beauty and ecological importance can easily be overlooked.

Reference photograph by Aubrey Heupel.