Basking in Spring sunlight

Common Frog (Rana temporaria)

Possibly our most recognisable amphibian, the common frog is distributed throughout Britain and Ireland, and can be found in almost any habitat where suitable breeding ponds are nearby.

Garden ponds are extremely important for common frogs and many populations in suburban areas depend on them.

Common frogs have smooth moist skin. Frogs are often found close to fresh water in habitats that remain damp throughout the summer. Outside of the breeding season they can roam up to 500 metres from a breeding pond.

Adults can grow to 9cm (nose to tail). They are generally a shade of olive-green or brown, with a dark patch (or 'mask') behind the eyes. Frogs often have bands of darker striping on the back legs. Many individuals have irregular dark markings on the back. The common frog’s colour can vary considerably – most are brown, olive green or grey, but red and yellow individuals also occur. They are able to adapt their skin colour to blend in with their surroundings.

Came across this little boy/girl in Wykeham Forest, on the first sunny day this Spring without a cold wind blowing.