These
little frogs are rarely more than 5cm. They have prominent eyes with
vertical pupils that appear overdeveloped in comparison to the size of their
heads which have a rounded noses. Their body is somewhat slim, dark or olive
grey marked with bright green spots, the smooth back has warts which
sometimes form irregular lines. Long digits front and rear, the rear being
webbed but only at the base.
Photos. Parsley frogs, adults, France
They are present all over France, preferring damp habitats ditches, wetlands and in the areas around ponds, rivers etc.
outside of the reproduction period they are terrestrial and nocturnal, spending the day under a rock, in a stone wall or a hole in the ground. Extremely agile
they hop away rapidly when disturbed and can climb perfectly smooth surfaces with the aid of
their abdomen. They do not appear to hibernate.
Photo. Parsley frog, larvae, France
Reproduction takes place from March until October depending on latitude, in the south very late coupling is observed. Up to 1500 eggs are laid in bunches or strings attached to aquatic plants.
It is considered to be endangered in the north of France (and some other Countries) and there are large regions where it is absent. Listed nationally Art.1. Liste rouge Nationale Vulnerable. Berne convention. Annexe 3.