Wildlife Viewing - With Your Child - Going on a Frog Hunt

drawing of family With Your Child

Going on a Frog Hunt

Even a short woodland walk searching for frogs and reptiles will likely turn up curiosities for your child.

Night walks to swamps and small ponds while frogs are chorusing are great experiences for children. Shine your flashlight up into trees to look for treefrogs, and on grassy vegetation to see the eyes of wolf spiders shining silver. At pond's edge, without disturbing the courting animals, look for males calling loudly and repeatedly to females. Use a small dip net to search for larvae, tadpoles and other underwater animals.

Green Tree Frog

At some point, shut off the light and absorb the grandeur of Florida darkness. You may even challenge your senses by finding your way along the path out without aid of the flashlight.

Some frog (and toad) songs are available on CD and tape. Try "The Calls of Frogs and Toads" by Lang Elliott available through Amazon.com or can be ordered through your local bookstore.