Rana Catesbeiana, Invader

Day 303: A master of concealment, the Bullfrog (Rana catesbeiana) is under consideration to be listed as an invasive species in the freshwater ponds of lowland western Washington. A prolific breeder, this species thrives in the near-stagnant murk of surface-water retention ponds and slow-moving ditches. The bullfrog is a hunter, and will consume any prey slower or smaller than itself, including other frogs, mice, young turtles and even small birds like ducklings or hummingbirds. It has been known to cannibalize its own species.

Some sources say that bullfrogs have contributed to the decline of native amphibian species, however, surveys indicate a reduction in amphibian population even in the higher altitudes where bullfrogs do not occur. If the bullfrog is not the prime suspect in the decline, it is certainly not making it easy for native frogs to gain ground.