The foothill yellow-legged frog occurs in the Coast Ranges from the Oregon border south to the Transverse Mts. Adults eat both aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates.
Tadpoles probably graze on algae and diatoms along rocky stream bottoms.
When disturbed, they dive into the water and take refuge under submerged rocks or sediments. During periods of inactivity, especially during cold weather, individuals seek cover under rocks in the streams or on shore within a few meters of water. Egg clusters are attached to gravel or rocks in moving water near stream margins. Tadpoles require water for at least three or four months while completing their aquatic development. Foothill yellow-legged frogs are found in or near rocky streams in a variety of habitats.