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Frogs and Toads

American Bullfrog

Lithobates catesbeianus

Across the regions where it's common, the American Bullfrog peaks from March to October.

Shows up in 49 ecoregions and 46 states

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Frogs and Toads

American Bullfrog

Lithobates catesbeianus

Look, don't take. Many states regulate collecting reptiles and amphibians. Photograph it, log it on iNaturalist and leave it where you found it.

Description

The American bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus), often simply known as the bullfrog in Canada and the United States, is a species of large frog in the family Ranidae (true frogs). The dorsal (upper) surface of the bullfrog has an olive-green background color, either plain or with mottling and banding of grayish brown.Wikipedia ↗

Habitat

The bullfrog is originally native to eastern North America, where it is commonly found in every U.S. state east of the Mississippi River. The bullfrog is an important item of prey for many birds (especially large herons), the North American river otter (Lontra canadensis), predatory fish, and occasionally other amphibians.Wikipedia ↗

When it's active

The eggs and larvae are unpalatable to many salamanders and fish, but the high levels of activity of the tadpoles may make them more noticeable to a predator not deterred by their unpleasant taste. The bullfrog breeding season typically lasts two to three months.Wikipedia ↗
Kelsey Low · CC BY 4.0

When and where it's active

Each row is its own calendar, counted from records in that area. Seasons shift by place.

PeakShoulderQuiet

Ecoregions

States

About the American Bullfrog

When is the American Bullfrog most active?

Across the regions where it's common, the American Bullfrog peaks from March to October.

Where does the American Bullfrog live?

It has enough records to show in 49 ecoregions and 46 states, including Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, and California.