African Bullfrog (Ambassador Animal)

(Pyxicephalus adspersus)

The Zoo is home to one African Bullfrog as part of our ambassador animal program (habitat not on public display). 

Animal Facts

African Bullfrogs are the largest species of frog in Southern Africa, and second largest in Africa. Males can grow to 9.5 inches long, and females grow to 4.5 inches, while they can weigh 2-5 pounds.

During the dry season, African Bullfrogs will go into a period of inactivity called estivation that can last from 10 months up to 2 years. They will burrow in the soil and grow a cocoon of skin layers to retain moisture and wait for the rainy season.

Male African Bullfrogs provide parental care by watching over and defending the eggs and tadpoles. They will defend their offspring by jumping at any approaching animals that they perceive as threats.

Large males will duel each other during breeding season, which involves them bellowing loudly and biting each other.

Female African Bullfrogs lay clutches of 1,600 to 4,000 eggs. The eggs hatch in 1-2 days and undergo metamorphosis in 18-33 days. The tadpoles have a limited amount of time to develop before the breeding pools dry up again.

Diet

Carnivorous. Insects, reptiles, small birds and mammals, other frogs. African Bullfrogs are ambush predators. They will sit and wait, in shallow water or mud, and quickly grab prey that comes close. They will eat whatever might fit in their mouths.