Classification
- KingdomAnimalia
- PhylumChordata
- ClassAmphibia
- OrderAnura
- FamilyRanidae
- GenusLithobates
- SpeciesL. catesbeiana
- LifespanAverage of 7 to 9 years; maximum of 16 years
- Size3.5 to 6 inches long
- OffspringSimultaneously, females lay egg clutches of up to 20,000 eggs while males release sperm to externally fertilize the eggs. Egg clutches form a thin, floating sheet in water.
- StatusWidespread and secure
Our American Bullfrog
Name(s)
Kona
Origin
Arrived in a locally caught baitfish order as a tadpole in February 2024. Exact age is unknown as bullfrogs can spend 1-3 years as tadpoles. Kona was named after a local feature of Lake Winnipesaukee.
Why It's Here
Releasing a captive amphibian into the wild can be dangerous due to the potential spread of disease. As a result, this bullfrog will remain at the Science Center to serve as an ambassador for their species.
How You Can Help
Never release pet amphibians into the wild, as they can introduce diseases that harm native wildlife.
American Bullfrog Fun Facts
- Male American bullfrogs begin to seek out mating females in May and June. They aggregate in choruses and sound deep, base notes that resemble the phrase jug-o-rum to attract females. Other territorial and encounter calls are sometimes heard from bullfrogs, too.
- American bullfrogs metamorphose at different rates depending on where they are located. In the south, metamorphosis can take only a few months, whereas in the north, it can take up to three years for tadpoles to grow into frogs.
- American bullfrogs can jump distances ten times the length of their bodies! This advantage helps bullfrogs avoid predators and capture prey.
American Bullfrog FAQs
What do American bullfrogs look like?
American bullfrogs are the largest North American frog, reaching a maximum of 6 inches in length. Their coloration ranges from green to brown with bluish or yellowish hues and a white-gray belly. Bullfrogs and green frogs look somewhat similar. Adult bullfrogs are larger and can be distinguished by looking closely at the tympanum/ear (circular discs behind the eye). Green frogs have a dorsolateral ridge extending three-quarters the length of the back. Bullfrogs dorsolateral ridge only extends around the tympanum.
Where do American bullfrogs live?
The American bullfrog has a natural range consisting of most of the eastern United States. However, it has been introduced to habitats throughout most of North American and parts of Brazil and China. Bullfrogs live in permanent bodies of water, including swamps, ponds, and lakes. They typically dwell along the water’s edge and require emergent vegetation for protection from predators.
What do American bullfrogs eat?
Bullfrogs are opportunistic predators, meaning they will eat any small animal they can swallow. This often includes invertebrates, crayfish, amphibians, small reptiles, fish, snails, and more. Bullfrogs ambush their prey and swallow their prey whole.