One of the biggest bonuses when we installed our pond was that we were able to watch both green frogs and American toads mate and lay eggs.
Watching the eggs develop into tadpoles and then into adults has been fascinating.
Toads need a water source like our ponds only in the spring breeding season since their tadpoles develop and leave the pond in just a few weeks. In the wild, temporary spring ponds (called vernal ponds) stay around long enough to suffice. Read more about toads raising young.
NOTE: This page records the dates when we first hear the toads singing for mates.
Green frog tadpoles develop more slowly, so vernal ponds aren’t enough. Read more about green frogs raising young.
Reflections
I’d kiss a frog even if there was no promise of a Prince Charming popping out of it. I love frogs.
~ Cameron Diaz