toads

Frogs and Toads are a huge part of our wildlife here in Britain, but do you know the differences between these to creatures?

FROGS

Have long legs so are able to jump good distances . They have a mucus on they’re skin which makes them feel slimy
Their body is quite narrow and they have many predators .
They also lay their spawn in clusters . And they need to stay near water .

shorter legs and are more likely to walk- although they can jump a little bit.
Their skin is much rougher and thicker .
They lay their spawn in strands but don’t need to stay near water other than when they spawn . They have fewer prey as they can secrete a horrible taste and smell.

I have both in my garden. What have you got?

Frogs or toads what can I say , they’re marmite aren’t they ? You either love them or hate them !

They’re a natural pesticide. Yes they’re slimy and yes they’re cold but they will reduce the need for slug pellets which are harmful to pets and other invertebrates which are so important to the natural balance of the landscape ,

I love it in the summer when there’s a rainstorm .they all come out of the woodwork.

This mild spring has caused me an issue . I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many tadpoles in my pond . So I’m going to give them a bit of extra help as the pond isn’t big enough to sustain this many. You find out more in my Frog Spawn and Tadpoles post…

The main thing which helps keep these little creatures thriving is regular water top ups to help keep the water fresh . And plenty of pond weed to oxygenate it.

I’ve also installed a solar water fountain to also help oxygenate the water.

Also I’m going to feed them . Any freshwater fish food will do- however pellets are better as they float on the surface. I also slice up any leftover cucumber and throw that in. You could even throw them a few bits of raw chicken or beef (the bits you cut off and usually throw in the bin) and they love it- but if your struggling to keep the water fresh leave this out. If you look after your tadpoles in this way, soon enough you’ll have loads of tiny froglets emerging from your pond!