American Bullfrog
Lithobates catesbeianus
Florida's largest native frog, known for a deep call that sounds like the low bellow of a bull.
American Bullfrogs live around permanent freshwater with abundant shoreline cover. Their deep calls carry long distances on warm, humid nights.
Large mouths allow them to take many kinds of prey. Adults sit along the water's edge and leap into deep water when approached.
Habitat:
Freshwater Wetlands, Lakes and Ponds, Rivers and Springs, Canals and Ditches
Area / Range:
Statewide
Diet:
Eats insects, crayfish, small fish, other frogs, snakes, small turtles, and any suitable prey it can overpower.
Behavior:
Mostly active at night, especially during warm wet weather. Males defend calling areas, and tadpoles can remain aquatic for more than one season.
Nighttime, Dawn and Dusk
Active Times:
Best time to see:
Warm evenings near permanent ponds, lakes, canals, and marsh edges.
Florida Native Status:
Native
Conservation Status:
Not federally or state listed; widespread around permanent freshwater.
Safety Level:
Low
Safety Information:
Generally harmless. Avoid handling because amphibian skin absorbs oils and chemicals; wash hands after necessary contact.
Benefits to Property:
Consumes many insects and supports larger wetland predators. Its presence often indicates permanent freshwater habitat.
Property Concerns:
Can consume smaller native frogs and ornamental pond animals. Pond lighting may concentrate insects and attract repeated activity.
Fun Fact:
- It is Florida's largest frog.
- The call is often described as jug-o-rum.
- Tadpoles can take more than a year to transform.
Wildlife Laws:
Harvest and possession follow current Florida freshwater fishing and frog regulations. Collection is restricted in protected areas and on property without permission.
Identification:
Very large green to brown frog with a round eardrum behind the eye and a skin fold curving around that eardrum. It lacks the long raised folds down the back seen on some similar frogs.