American Bullfrog (Rana Catesbeiana)
The American Bullfrog is a prominent amphibian native to North America. During the mating season, which spans from May to July, male bullfrogs are notably vocal, their calls resonating across ponds and lakes. Typically found in shallow waters, bullfrogs are less frequently observed than Green Frog (Lithobates clamitans) but are a fascinating subject for wildlife enthusiasts.
- 🇫🇷 Ouaouaron, Grenouille-taureau
- 🇩🇪 Nordamerikanische Ochsenfrosch
- 🇲🇽 Rana toro
Characteristics
- Length: 10-20cm
- Weight: 0.45-0.68kg
How to Identify
At first glance, distinguishing a bullfrog from a Green Frog (Lithobates clamitans) can be challenging. Observe the crest that starts above the eye and extends around the eardrum, leading to the front legs. In Green Frog (Lithobates clamitans), this crest runs along the back to the hind legs. Another distinguishing feature is the size of the tympanum, which is larger than the eye.
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Where and When to Spot
In ponds around Montreal, from late spring to early autumn, I observe them less frequently than green frogs. Typically, I spot them remaining motionless in the shallow water amidst the reeds along the pond's shore.
Observations by Park and Season
| Location | Spring | Summer | Autumn | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parc Angrignon | x | x | - | - |
| Parc de la Frayère | - | x | - | - |
| Parc des Étangs Antoine-Charlebois | - | x | - | - |
"-" indicates no observation. It may not necessarily mean though that the species is absent from the park during that season.