Frogs and Toads... Notable Differences




We have the rain to thank for the resurgence of the frogs and toads with every kind seemingly everywhere this year. The last time they were seen in such great numbers was 1993 when they appeared after the spring flooding along with hundreds of tiny painted turtles.

(Mr. Toad has lived here 25 years.)


Frogs:
Earliest fossils indicate frogs existed 125 million years ago… they are a mirror of the environment and a treasure. Sadly frog populations have declined dramatically since the 1950’s with more than one third of the species believed to be threatened with extinction and more than 120 species already suspected to be extinct since 1980. Their skin must remain moist so oxygen which is dissolved in an aqueous external body-film may pass into their bloodstream… this process may mainstream toxins, which are believed to be the source of their decline. Also their eggs are subject to water pollution and they have adapted no protection from man-made poisons.

The frog is a true amphibian… frog eggs are fertilized and laid in the water and it is in the pond that young hatch and begin to morph. They appear first as tadpoles then gradually change into young frogs by losing their tail, losing their gills, developing lungs, and finally developing their fabulous hind legs, which are more suited for leaping than hopping. They eat mosquito larva, so cultivating their acquaintance is a garden must.


Toads:
There are differences between frogs and toads; the toad has adapted far better than his cousin the frog. The toad is not particular about laying eggs so she may lay eggs in a standing puddle… the puddles this year were perfect. A toad is not dependant upon water, has warty skin, a shorter more muscular face and short hind legs well suited for hopping.


Toads do not migrate but rather burrow into the garden to hibernate with some living up to 40 years. The toad has developed survival tactics against predators which the sleek frog lacks. A toad may inflate his body, play dead, or secrete an unpleasant tasting chemical through a gland behind his eyes. A dog who has the perchance for catching toads will begin to foam at the mouth for his efforts… the canine will usually drop the toad upon contact.  

 It is a myth that toads may pass their warts to humans; the warts belong to them alone. The hundreds of tiny toadlets hiding among the flowers, uttering their adorable squeak when surprised, are harmless and make marvelous playmates for the day… remember to release them by evening.

Baby Toads from a puddle