King of Missouri frogs

The American bullfrog is a common sight during summer in Southeast Missouri. It often is seen leaping into the water along streams, ponds and lakes.

This frog can grow to about 8 inches in length, measuring from tip of nose to vent at rear of its main body -- not including the length of outstretched legs. It is our largest frog.

Generally speaking, the American bullfrog is most active in Southeast Missouri during April through early November.

By mid-November, it probably will have gone to hibernate in the mud bottom of a body of water that is at least a few feet deep.

In spring, when water temperatures reach about 65 or 70 degrees, a female bullfrog will lay several thousand eggs.

Within a week or less, the eggs will hatch, and thousands of tadpoles will be released. They will remain as tadpoles for several months, turning into small frogs the second year of their life. At 3 years of age, an American bullfrog will be an adult.

The call of a large American bullfrog is vaguely similar to the bellow of a bull and can be almost as loud in some cases.