I wrote this article for FGASA and it has been published by them on their media platforms.
April is National Frog Month and to celebrate these interesting amphibians, here are some facts that might come in useful when you are doing a pub quiz or writing a FGASA exam….
FYI: Worldwide there are 2500 to 3800 species of frogs and toads and of that number 131 species from 12 families, are found in Southern Africa.
Did you know?
It is NOT a good idea to kiss a frog as amphibians are known carriers of salmonella! Actually you would probably do more harm to the fog by making it sick due to exposure to human bacteria or chemicals from your mouth and lips.
Handling frogs and toads will NOT give you warts. While the skin secretions of certain species might cause irritation or a rash, warts are actually caused by a virus.
Their most effective method of defence is to urinate on predators (including humans). As the urine tastes and smells bad, it is often all that is required to make an escape.
There are two major differences between frogs and toads. The former has a moist, slimy skin while toads are dry and bumpy externally. Frogs lay their eggs in a mass, while toads lay theirs in chains.
Many of the frog species have what might be perceived as ‘teeth’. They have a row of cone-shaped teeth along the edge of the upper jaw and some have Vomerine teeth that are found on the upper palate. With nothing resembling teeth on the lower jaw, most frogs swallow their prey whole.
Although there are about 100 species of the brightly coloured Poison Dart Frogs, none are found in South Africa. The closest we come to dangerous is the massive Bullfrog which can and will often bite if threatened. At 22cm, it is also one of the largest of the African species.
(Image supplied by Roger and Pat de la Harpe Photography)
Frogs are seen as harbingers of good luck and abundance, and in some Celtic cultures are seen as monarchs. (Which might have given rise to the kissing a frog legend)
Many species hibernate during the coldest winter months. Some will burrow into mud, while others will just lie on the bottom of a pond or stream, waiting for the weather to warm up.
So, the next time you hear the resounding croak of a frog echoing through the darkness, either in an urban setting or bush destination, take a moment to contemplate just how important they are to the environment. (Image supplied by Margaux Mathey)
Unless stated, all images are the copyright property of
and may not be used without permission.
