Bullfrog

Lithobates catesbeianus (Rana catesbeiana)

Bullfrogs are one of the species most comfortable in an urban setting. They have colonized every fountain and aquatic garden here at Atlanta Botanical Garden in mid-town. They are our largest amphibian getting over 6 inches long. They can be found in virtually every permanent wetland in metro Atlanta. If you are aware of a permanent water body without Bullfrogs, they probably haven't found it yet. Their loud calls have been described as 'jug-o-rum' and males call throughout the summer. They can be distinguished from the similar looking Green Frog by lacking a dorso-lateral ridge down their back on both sides.

Bullfrog tadpoles are toxic and can therefore co-exist easily with fish. They also take over a year to develop and metamorphose so require permanent wetlands for breeding. They lay their eggs in large mats with float on the surface of the water or sink slightly below.

Bullfrogs are KNOWN to occur in both Fulton and Dekalb counties.