Why Do Frogs Croak After Rain? The Pond Chorus

What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why do frogs croak after rain?

The Big Idea

Rain makes travel and breeding easier for frogs. Wet ground does not dry out their skin, and puddles and ponds fill up. Many male frogs call to say, I am here, and to attract a mate.

Rain Wets the Land

Step one: rain wets the land. Frogs have thin skin that can dry out, so wet nights are perfect for travel. Ponds and ditches fill up, too, and that gives frogs places to lay eggs.

The Male Puffs a Sac

Step two: the male puffs a throat sac. A croak is air pushed across a voice box, and a puffed throat sac works like a megaphone. Different species have different songs. A spring peeper does not sound like a bullfrog.

The Call Travels

Step three: the call travels. Females hear the song and follow it to the pond. Other males may call to claim a good spot, and eggs may soon be laid in the water.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look at a croak! The throat sac swells like a balloon. Air moves back and forth to make the sound. The pond is where the frogs meet. And rain is the signal that starts the concert!

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Follow the sound with your ears, not by grabbing frogs. Roads after rain are dangerous for frogs and for kids, so stay on the sidewalk. A sudden hush can mean a heron is near, or a person got too close. Night frog walks need a grown-up, a light, and a plan.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Listen after a rain with a grown-up. Listen for frogs after a rain, from the porch or a path. How many different songs did you hear? What did the rain change for the singers? Then keep a safe distance and enjoy the concert.

Outro

Frogs show us that rain can be a signal to sing. Science is amazing! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!