Bullfrog
Rana catesbeiana

The largest frogs in our area, bullfrogs reach a body length of eight inches. They are voracious predators, feeding on just about any small animal they can catch, including insects, other frogs, and even small snakes. There are even records of bullfrogs feeding on birds and baby alligators! Bullfrogs are a native species in this area but are introduced in other parts of our country. In the southwestern United States, they have caused all sorts of ecological problems by severely depleting populations of some native animals.

Look for bullfrogs in any permanent pond or lake. On warm summer nights, especially after heavy rain, bullfrogs can be heard calling mates. Their resonating "jug-o-rum" calls are unmistakable for any other frog species. Sometimes they can even be found crossing roads on rainy nights. Male bullfrogs are territorial, often battling other males over territory and females. Breeding takes place in the spring, when eggs are laid in a jelly mass just below the surface of the water. These eggs hatch and eventually grow into large, 3-inch tadpoles. They often remain in this tadpole state for two years until metamorphosis. At this time, they start to develop hind and front legs and lose their tail. The small froglets move onto land and start feeding on insects and other small animals. These little frogs are in turn preyed upon by snakes, birds, fish and other predators.

Photos provided by David Scott

Bullfrog 

This information is provided as a public service by the Savannah River Ecology Laboratory Outreach Program.