When you think of a frog or toad, what comes to mind? Slimy? Warty? Toxic? Do you ever even think about these amazing animals?
Today I wanted to share with you some truth about toads and facts about frogs to dispel myths about these marvels.
Myth #1 - They give you warts, so don't touch!
Truth: While it's always good to give wild animals their freedom, touching them will not harm you. Yes, some toads have bumpy skin, but human warts are not caused by toad skin.
Myth #2 - SLIME CITY - they are gross.
Truth: Amphibians, by nature, have skin that is wetter than other animals, understandably - they need water and their skin helps them survive in different environments. Slimy, though? Well, it depends on your perception. Parrot fish actually DO make a mucus bubble to sleep in (for nighttime protection) which is probably a little slimy, but frogs - some do have a slippery coating to protect their skin, but is it really any different from you putting on lotion or sunscreen or a hippo secreting red sweat for sun protection?
AND - Toads have dry skin (and are super cute!)
Myth #3 - Frogs and Toads are the same thing
Truth: While Frogs and Toads are related on the tree of life (as we all are, really), they have differences. See here for the specifics.
(But remember that both toads and frogs are toad-ally awesome!)
Myth #4 - All Frogs say "Ribbit"
Many frogs make distinct sounds. The coqui (a teeny treefrog from Puerto Rico) has a very loud sound for a little being. Other frogs range in their sounds from a loud bellow to a peep. Take a listen!
Myth #5 - Frogs and Toads are Toxic!
Truth: Yes, some frogs and toads are poisonous to touch, but it's only for self-protection. So, as always, when in doubt - leave wild animals alone. Take photos, enjoy their beauty, but let them live in peace.
Frogs and Toads around the world.
There are over 300 species of toad and more than 6000 frog species so I'm sure you can find one you like the look or sound of. They are remarkable in color, size, shape...
Frogs in culture
This website has tons of interesting info about frogs in literature and culture and their meaning.
This photograph is from the incomparable Joel Sartore
Frogs, being musical inspire song, dance and jokes.
Here is John Downland's "Frog Gaillard"
Some Giggles, or ribbits or ...
What happened to the frog's car when his parking meter expired?
IT GOT TOAD!
What do you call a girl with a fror on her head?
LILY!
What do you call a toad with no legs?
UNHOPPY!
Blue poison dart frog - look but don't touch!
Hope you are having a HOPPY day - love to all our animal friends and thanks for reading!!!!
Thanks for this wonderful post. You've included so much interesting information, and I love the links (and the cute frog jokes!). Joel Sartore's photographs are AMAZING, and I've always wanted to know the specifics regarding the differences between frogs and toads--and thanks to you, now I do! Also, listening to the different frog and toad sounds was very cool--my favorite one was the red toad--to me, it sounded like a trombone! Which brings me to my last comment: I really enjoyed John Dowland's "Frog Galliard." Thank you for sharing all of this enlightening information!