Common frogs (Rana temporaria) began breeding in the office pond very early this year. The first batch of frogspawn was observed on the morning of Saturday, the 18th of February. Frog activity had been observed in the pond a few days earlier. The spawning season has stared early, perhaps because of the mild, wet weather. February the 18th is the earliest date in the year that we have recorded frogspawn. Last year (2023), the first frogspawn was recorded on the 28th of February. This was the first time that we had recorded frogs spawning in February.

We estimate that by this weekend, a total of thirteen batches of frogspawn had been laid. The number of frogs seen in the pond has rarely exceeded four or five. However, other frogs must be visiting the pond and breeding during the night or in the early morning.

Frogspawn in the office pond recorded on the 2nd March (2024).
A large amount of frogspawn observed in the office pond on the morning of the 2nd of March (2024). Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

A Record Amount of Frogspawn

A spokesperson from Everything Dinosaur commented:

“Although we cannot be certain, there could be a record amount of frogspawn in the office pond. We think there are thirteen batches in total. All the eggs were laid in a shallow part of the pond.”

Hopefully, the sudden cold snap with overnight frosts will not have harmed the eggs. We are looking forward to watching the tadpoles hatch.

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