the Bullfrog
(Rana catesbeiana)

Male bullfrogs are territorial and defend their home turf by calling out to warn intruders. If that doesn't work, a shoving or wrestling match may follow!

From May to July the male bullfrog's deep "bur-rum" call attracts females, who lay eggs in large, jelly-like masses that can measure a yard across. Smaller males that cannot compete with large males for territories have evolved a trick. They hide out near the large calling male and intercept females attracted to the big male. By this strategy, the small males are able to occasionally mate and pass on their genes.

Bullfrogs are famous for their big appetites. As tadpoles, they eat mostly algae, but adults eat just about anything they can catch and cram in their mouths, including other frogs. Some of the more unusual items on their menu include insects, garter snakes and even ducklings.

Bullfrogs themselves are eaten by birds, turtles, raccoons and snakes. Humans also have developed a taste for bullfrogs -- you might even see bullfrog legs on a restaurant menu.

Bullfrog Field Guide