
On a recent hike at Quiet Trails State Nature Preserve on the Challenger Trail, the girls spotted a pond full of massive frogs. We had a great time watching them, especially when they squeaked before leaping into the safety of the water under the duckweed. This bullfrog was kind enough to pose for the camera.
This one was sitting on the edge of the pond fairly unaware we were even there.
The pond is located just a few feet in from the beginning of the Challenger Trail. That portion of the trail is pretty open but the Whitetail Rest Trail is very overgrown and has an ample supply of poison ivy.
Bullfrogs and green frogs usually share the same ponds and marshes. These frogs are members of the members of the Ranidae family and are true frogs. Around this area, Ranidae family includes the bullfrog, green frog, leopard frog, pickerel frog, and wood frog.
Female bullfrogs tend to have ear drums that are about the same size as their eyes.
Here is a free online guide to Amphibian id book Ohio Division of Wildlife’s Guide to Amphibians
If you have kids at home, they might like this book: