Inter-breeding Amphibians!

[Paul Iddon]

Is it a common occurrences for male frogs to clamp themselves onto female toads?

Cos they are doing it in my little garden pond tonight! And if there is spawn, will it be froggy or toady?



Paul.

[Wild-Woman]

I think that males that are deperate enough will clamp onto anything if there aren't enough females to go round. I'm sure they can't inter-breed.

[thunder]

Originally Posted by Wild-Woman

I think that males that are deperate enough will clamp onto anything if there aren't enough females to go round. I'm sure they can't inter-breed.

Yes, that's right. Male Frogs (and male Toads) will grab anything that doesn't move away fast enough. Sometimes a poor female will be the centre of a bundle of amorous males. They will even assault your wrist if they get the chance.

And you won't see any Froads or Togs - they are not interfertile.

henrya

PS Ooops. Cross post with Matt.

[Matt Smith]

Agreed - males will clamp onto anything and everything during the breeding season. Try putting your hand into a pond of amorous frogs or toads during the breeding season and see what I mean. Frogs and toads do not interbreed.

[glsammy]

Here's a shot I took a couple of days ago, showing exactly this behaviour.

[Paul Iddon]

Thanks folks, I figured as much

Paul.