Frogs in my Pond. Is that Good or Bad?

Who Are They?

Amphibians, including frogs, are an essential part of the ecosystem and form an important portion of the terrestrial, aquatic and semi-aquatic biomass. Frogs play an important ecological role: the tadpoles, which are vegetarians, feed on micro-plants and micro-algae. They are primary consumers in the food chain and later serve as food for many invertebrates and vertebrates. Adults, which are carnivorous, eat mostly insects, but some frogs also devour small birds, mammals, fish and snakes – just about anything that moves and can fit in their mouths! (As long as they don’t end up on the menu of those same predators themselves!)

Why Should You Keep an Eye on Them?

Frogs are useful in biological pest control, and some large species have been introduced for this purpose in many parts of the world. In addition, these animals are very good indicators of the health of natural environments. The fact that they live partly in water and that their skin is semi-impermeable explains why they are so sensitive to pollution and environmental changes. By knowing their distribution in wetlands, we know the sensitive habitats that suffer the effects of climate change (acidity, multiple pollution, excessive heat …). Also, by tracking population trends year after year, we can judge the health of our environment.

It is also possible for frogs to overpopulate ponds, as ponds are ideal living environments for feeding and breeding. If there are too many frogs in your pond and you are wondering what to do, all is not lost. There are a few methods to help you control their population. First, you can try moving them to a suitable location at least 800 metres away from the water. Secondly, avoid having a pond with stagnant water, this will make it more difficult for them to breed. Accessories that create water movement exist on the market such as waterfalls and fountains that move the water and discourage reproduction. Take a look at our fountain options right here. Finally, add fish. These will create movement in the water as well as being predators for these amphibians. If you’re wondering what fish would be useful for your pond, take a look at this article: The right fish for your pond.

Frogs and toads tell us a lot about the health of our environment. Because they require both aquatic and terrestrial habitats for their life cycle and have very sensitive skin that absorbs pollutants, frogs and toads are good indicators of environmental health. In short, frogs in a pond are a very good sign!

 Frogs in an ecosystem are a good sign that the ecosystem is healthy.

Frogs in an ecosystem are a good sign that the ecosystem is healthy. And the denser and more diverse the populations, the better the ecosystem is. Now that you know that the presence of frogs in your water body is a sign that it’s healthy, it’s easier to appreciate their spring breeding songs.  🎵 🎵 🎵