Morphing Frogs

Top Photo: Bullfrogs at edge of wetlands.

The numerous bullfrogs that are currently morphing from tadpole to frog in our wetlands were eggs last summer. The eggs hatched approximately five days from deposition. Nine months to perhaps a year later they’re transitioning from tadpole to frog. That may seem a long time, but consider the bullfrog in more northern climates. A bullfrog tadpole hatched in a Massachusetts pond may take three years to become a frog.

Tiny frog heads protrude from water.

These frogs are approximately 2″ in length.

The bottom frog still has a portion of its tail.

Take a walk out on our floating walkway in the wetlands before the spectacle ends.

They pile on top of one another.
Everywhere you look there are fresh juvenile frogs.

Bullfrogs (rana catesbeiana) can be found in nearly every state in the lower 48, being introduced to the western states. The historical range is from the plains states eastward. They’ve been introduced everywhere else. They’re adaptable, tolerant of various water conditions, and eat anything they can fit into their mouths. Where no other frog can survive, bullfrogs flourish.

A hefty adult American bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana).

Enjoy.

Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.