The Silence of the Frogs

Deb London · #1 (**permalink**) 17-03-2011, 06:25 PM

My frogs are generally healthy-looking individuals that breed successfully. But they do not seem to want to sing for me. I even went on YouTube to have a listen, as I feel I'm missing out.

Does anyone have an ideas as to why I have never heard a frog croak in my garden?

Kayleigh · #2 (**permalink**) 17-03-2011, 06:31 PM

Is there a predator around mine go really quiet if they see me or the dog and dont sing for a while then till they feel safe again..

Loved the spawn pics you have a lot more than me but a first in the pond for me.

Deb London · #3 (**permalink**) 17-03-2011, 06:41 PM

Thanks E.

There is me of course, with my torch if it's dark. And the occasional cat. But they are protected by a horrible, whining sonic cat scarer, 24/7. And various projectiles if I do see anything.

There is nothing unusual about my garden that I can see.

The OH bought an electronic frog and unbeknownst to me, he hid it next to the pond. Whenever I activated it as I went past, it would sing. I was very happy

...until I realized that the croaks came in threes and were very regularly spaced...

Kayleigh · #4 (**permalink**) 17-03-2011, 06:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Deb London

Thanks E.

There is me of course, with my torch if it's dark. And the occasional cat. But they are protected by a horrible, whining sonic cat scarer, 24/7. And various projectiles if I do see anything.

There is nothing unusual about my garden that I can see.

The OH bought an electronic frog and unbeknownst to me, he hid it next to the pond. Whenever I activated it as I went past, it would sing. I was very happy

...until I realized that the croaks came in threes and were very regularly spaced...

OMG perhaps they think there is big frog monster singing in the bushes and its scared them all into silence..
That's so funny what on earth would you want an electronic f for lol

Deb London · #5 (**permalink**) 17-03-2011, 07:14 PM

OMG, yes, I hadn't thought of that.

Gill Catton · #6 (**permalink**) 17-03-2011, 07:22 PM

I have to say I've only rarely heard frogs sing. Lots of toads squeaking and Marsh frogs won't shut up but you're common all garden frog I think I've only heard a handful of times despite ten years of amphibian survey...

Deb London · #7 (**permalink**) 17-03-2011, 07:36 PM

Good, it's not just me then. Thanks Gill.

Red Squirrel · #8 (**permalink**) 17-03-2011, 07:36 PM

No frogs singing here either. In fact no frogs therefore no frog spawn.

We have a fish pond and a wildlife pond and not a sign of a frog. Saw 2 newts a couple of weeks ago but that's all.

Took about 50 - 60 dead frogs out of the fish pond a couple of weeks ago, this despite a pond heater keeping a small area ice free throughout the Winter.

Hope we get some frogs, wouldn't be Spring without frog spawn.

Dorts · #9 (**permalink**) 17-03-2011, 07:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gill Catton

I have to say I've only rarely heard frogs sing. Lots of toads squeaking and Marsh frogs won't shut up but you're common all garden frog I think I've only heard a handful of times despite ten years of amphibian survey...

I have to agree. I too have rarely heard the Common Frog call, it is just not very vocal, whereas the Toads at the moment are in full voice.
Dorts.

aeshna5 · #10 (**permalink**) 17-03-2011, 08:50 PM

Strange as I hear the frogs every year in my garden at mating time. It isn't particularly loud + more noticeable if there is some drizzle/rain but is there + a real joy. Nothing like the cacophony of Marsh Frogs (which I also love the sound of, but suspect my neighbours wouldn't if I had them).