Meet the proud African bullfrog
Croaks from the African bullfrog can be heard from bodies of freshwater, tropical shrublands, and moist Savannah across the continent. Males and females use different sounds to attract each other, as well as indicate moments of distress.
When it comes to diet, the bullfrog consumes vast amounts of meat. The sustenance comes in the form of a variety of other amphibians and reptiles, insects, small birds, and rodents. The male of the species has also been noted as on occasion eating the tadpoles under his care.
The life cycle of the bullfrog starts when the female lays between 3,000 and 4,000 eggs. After hatching, the tadpoles become carnivores within two days, feasting on small fish and even each other.
Although the bullfrog’s status is classified as ‘Least Concern’, numbers are dwindling because of habitat loss.
More reptiles and amphibians
The bright blue head of the male southern rock agama is a familiar sight on the rocky outcrops scattered across Africa. This is even more visible during mating season with the females a grey-brown colour.
Its inky-black mouth and lightening striking action make the black mamba the most feared snake in Africa. One bite from this snake, with its neuro-toxic venom, will result in certain death in most instances.
The lakes, rivers, marshlands, and swamps of 26 African countries teem with the mighty Nile crocodile. And although most-suited to freshwater as the largest predator of this terrain, it has occasionally been spotted in brackish lakes and deltas.
Popular Parks Across Africa
Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park lies in northeastern South Africa and is one of Africa’s largest game reserves with a high density of wildlife.
Hwange National Park
Hwange National Park is located in west Zimbabwe boasts grasslands and mopane woods that are home to a wide variety of reptiles and amphibians.
Etosha National Park
Etosha National Park is home to 114 large and small mammal species, more than 400 bird species, scores of reptiles, and even fish species.
Moremi Game Reserve
Moremi Game Reserve is located on the eastern side of the Okavango Delta in Botswana and borders the Chobe National Park.
Amboseli National Park
Amboseli National Park lies at base of Africa’s highest mountain, the snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro and is home to diverse wildlife.