Conservation
Landowners who wish to encourage a variety and abundance of toads and frogs can do so by following some simple land-management practices. Most of the species native to Missouri breed in fishless ponds or temporary pools. Landowners may not think these small water holes are valuable, but, in fact, a dozen or more species of amphibians may use them as breeding ponds. Small brush piles placed in the water near the pond edge, as well as near the pond, provide good hiding places for young toads and frogs as they leave the pond. Placing dead tree branches in shallow water will provide places for female frogs to attach their egg masses. Fencing the pond from cattle will protect the water quality and allow the growth of a more diverse plant community, which will provide cover and insects. Insecticides and other pesticides should be kept away from any frog ponds because their eggs and tadpoles are highly sensitive to these chemicals. With a little effort, landowners can ensure that these animals remain a part of our outdoor heritage.
Toads and frogs provide food for a wide variety of animals, and are also eaten by people—frog legs are a delicacy. Their peeps, trills, whistles, grunts and snores add aesthetics to a spring or summer evening. The study of these interesting amphibians can be a rewarding summer-time hobby. Learning to identify Missouri’s species by the sounds they make can be an enjoyable spring and summer pastime and is as challenging as birdwatching.
As the famous herpetologist Archie Carr once wrote: “I collect frog songs in my head as some people save stamps in a book.” You don’t have to be a trained biologist to be able to recognize their various sounds; it just takes practice and lots of patience.
