How big is a frog?

Well, it depends on how old it is.  In my observations it takes about 4 years for a frog to reach full size from the tadpole stage.  Then there is the weight to consider.  I think they weigh less in the spring that they do later in the year - due to the hibernation. 

Until today the largest frog I've seen in my pond (though up to now I haven't actively searched) was in October 2007.  It weighed in at a hefty 73 gms and had a hind leg span of 11 cms from the thigh socket to the end of its toe.

However tonight I found a large frog in the road just in front of our house.  Not wanting it to get squashed I picked it up.  Due to its size I expected it to be a toad but it was a frog - a big one!  It weighed in at 65 gms which, as its only spring, is a fair old weight.  Its leg span was 11 cms.  It certainly had some strength and it was as much as I could do to contain it within my hand.

I've marked its back with Tippex in the hope of monitoring it but I think it will wash off in the water.

It's now sitting on the side of our pond in the back garden amidst much croaking and splashing.  I still haven't replaced our outside light (a bit tricky due to shrubs and bushes) and will try tomorrow so I can watch them at night.  I hope the mating ritual continues for a few more days before the frogs lay their eggs.  Once that happens all the frogs will disappear once more.  The show will be over for another year.

Ttfn  :o)