Frogs

Frogs are amphibians, which means they can live both in water and on land. They start their lives as tadpoles swimming in water. Frogs are found on every continent except Antarctica. There are over 7,000 different species of frogs.

From Tadpole to Frog

Frogs go through an amazing change called metamorphosis. They start as eggs in water. Tiny tadpoles hatch out and breathe through gills like fish. Over several weeks, they grow legs, lose their tails, and develop lungs to breathe air.

Amazing Abilities

Frogs can jump up to 20 times their own body length. Their long, sticky tongues can catch insects in the blink of an eye. Some frogs are brightly colored to warn predators that they are poisonous. Other frogs can change color to blend in.

Fun Facts

• The golden poison frog has enough poison to harm 10 grown men.
• Some frogs can freeze solid in winter and thaw out in spring.
• Frogs drink water through their skin, not their mouths.

Did You Know?

The smallest frog in the world is only about the size of a housefly! It was discovered in Papua New Guinea in 2012.