Love Is in the Parks
Did you know that Pennsylvania is home to 18 native frog and toad species? Our parks and natural areas are filled with a variety of amphibious creatures, but many residents and park goers don’t know much about them—and probably aren’t aware that a few species are even endangered. Plus, how many people truly know how frogs and toads differ, beyond just their Frog and Toad childhood readings? (Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.) In honor of World Frog Day on March 20—not to mention Save the Frogs Day in April and Amphibian Week in May—we’re giving you a pond of knowledge on all these amphibians. So let’s hop to it!
The Big Difference
Here’s the deal: All toads are frogs, but not all frogs are toads. Toads are technically classified within the frog category. (The more you know!) But they have definite differences.
When you’re out and about and see one of these lil guys and question which is which, here’s how you’ll know: Frogs have thin, slimy skin while toads have thicker, dry skin. This difference is because of how each intakes water and oxygen.
But you know, you’ll also be able to tell based on where in the park or forest you are. Toads survive best in dryer, terrestrial habitats, while frogs will often be found near water.
Frogs
Your knowledge of frogs may only include the fact that they ribbit (although more accurately, they croak), sit on lily pads, and have an intense arcade game named after them. But the species is vast, with interesting, distinct features.
The Spring Peeper is the most common frog in Pennsylvania, with a breeding season from February to May. They’re also known for being quite small and their particularly high mating calls. You’ll find them in swamps, marshlands, and meadows.
Another common frog in PA wildlife is the Wood Frog. These frogs spend most of their time in upland habitats, but come spring, they make their way down to seasonal pools. What’s so fun about this species is their unique ability to survive the winter months by burrowing or staying under leaf piles. How will you know if you’re looking at a wood frog? Well, the dark shading around their face looks like a mask, and be alert for their mating call, which sounds strangely like a duck’s quack.
Looking to hop off your lily pad and check out some frogs in your free time? There are a few spots you can visit to catch a glimpse.
The Bog and Moss-Hanne Trails of Black Moshannon State Park are swampy areas ideal for frog glimpses. The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail of Laurel Ridge State Park is another unique spot to see some frogs crossing, all on their way to vernal pools in time for mating!
The Problem
As mentioned, some frogs are endangered. While there are plenty of welcoming homes within PA parks, there are other factors that make it harder for them to survive. Residential and industrial development is one of the largest issues, but pollution and logging also play a part. But many of these endangered species have Species Action Plans, official for recovering and conserving specific species.
Toads
Now that we’ve taught you the difference between frogs and toads, let’s touch on toads specifically. Out of the 18 native frog species of PA, only three are toads.
One is the Eastern American Toad. This guy is your classic toad—exactly what you’d picture when asked to think of one (though they are actually often confused with the other two native species of toad). They’re brown, warty, medium-sized, and abundant. You’ll often find them in fields, meadows, hillsides, and even your own backyard!
Then there’s Fowler’s Toad. This species is known for the pale stripe down the center of their back. You’ll find them in wooded areas, marshlands, and near streams.
And finally, there’s the Eastern Spadefoot. They are the most distinguishable among their toad friends because of their vertical pupils and their black spade-like protrusion on their foot (hence the name). But careful, this species can excrete a peppery secretion that can sometimes cause an allergic reaction.
Other amphibians and slimy things
Just like frogs and toads, Pennsylvania has a good bit of native snake species: 21, to be exact. Pay extra attention, though. Three of these species are venomous.
The timber rattlesnake and copperhead are two venomous snakes that have a stable population within PA. While timber rattlesnakes are often docile, it is still best to protect yourself in all ways. When hiking, be sure to wear pants and boots that cover your ankles and legs; and when taking a seat on a log or the ground, take a peek to make sure you’re not disturbing anything that slithers.
Additionally, Pennsylvania is home to 22 species of salamanders—not to be confused with lizards. But you may only see these long wet squirmers on evening hikes as they’re nocturnal and only found by streams or other bodies of water.
How To Help Out
Many of the endangered amphibian species are already protected by the Commonwealth to ensure their safety and conservation, but there are things you can do as well that can help protect them.
The first thing to do is report any and all sightings you have of these creatures. The Pennsylvania Amphibian and Reptile Survey (PARS) is the best place to start. By playing a part in the collection of data, you’re helping ensure conservationists can take the right steps.
Did you know that you can even help out in your own backyard? As said, frogs and toads often choose to burrow or take cover under leaf piles and coverings, especially in the colder months. You can DIY your own toad abode to give them space to get comfy until it’s warm and safe for them once again.
