As snow, ice, and cold winds are headed our way our autumn jackets change to heavy winter coats, but what do frogs do to stay alive during the winter months? A common theory we hear is that they burrow into the mud on the bottom of streams and ponds, but that’s not entirely true.
Aquatic and terrestrial frogs go into a state of hibernation during the winter months in order to weather the cold temperatures. Some frogs actually have the ability to become partially frozen, to the point that their heart will stop beating, but don’t die due to the high concentrations of glucose in their systems that acts as antifreeze.
Aquatic frogs find a place on the bottom of a body of water on top of the mud to hibernate. They have to be in contact with oxygenated water in order to survive through the winter since their systems still need a good amount of oxygen, so they don’t burrow into the mud like some turtles do. You may even see them slowly swimming around every now and then.
Terrestrial frogs that you might find hanging around your pond will find a place to burrow into the ground to escape the cold. They might find an area a wooded area or in the flower beds near the pond. Many species of frogs will use old logs, crevices in rocks, or piles of leaves and compost.
So if you don’t see any of your frogs, they are just hiding, but they’ll be back! If you want to help, ensure that they survive the winter there are a few things you can do.
Don’t worry! Your frogs will be back in the spring after they finish their winter nap.
Looking for more information on how to care for your pond during the winter months? You can find more tips in these previous blog posts:
Salvador began working with Damascus Enterprises, Inc. in March 2017.
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Mark began working with Damascus Enterprises, Inc. in September 2010. Mark holds the following certifications; Aquascape Academy Certified, Maryland Certified Pesticide Applicator, and Maryland Certified Fertilizer Applicator.
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Mike is a 3rd generation landscape professional and has worked in the field of horticulture for over 20 years. He has an AAS degree in landscape technology from Montgomery College. Mike is a Certified Professional Horticulturist through the Maryland Department of Agriculture and Landscape Industry Certified in softscape, and hardscape installation certified through PLANET. Mike began working with Damascus Enterprises, Inc. in February 2014.
Damascus Enterprises, Inc. was established by Scott in 1998 as strictly a landscape company. Under his leadership and through continued training the business has grown and expanded to now offer a full array of services that include pond and waterfall installation and maintenance, lawn care, landscape design, custom stonework, and outdoor lighting.Scott is an Aquascape Certified Contractor, Vista Certified Design & Installation Specialist and regularly attends industry education and networking events like Pondemonium and Pondeminium. He has previously been recognized as a top young entrepreneur by Maryland’s Governor and the Small Business Association. He currently serves on the board of Montgomery County Farm Bureau and is Co-chair of the entertainment committee of the Montgomery County Agricultural Fair and is involved in the Damascus community through various activities. Scott and his wife Melody live in Damascus with their two children.