Keep an ear open for bullfrogs

Wyoming Game and Fish confirmed the finding of an American bullfrog at Kleenburn Pound north of Sheridan in 2018.

Herpetologist conducted a survey in the Sheridan Region to determine if there were more in the area. That survey determined that there are large numbers of the American bullfrogs at Mavrakis Pond and several sites along Big Goose Creek. 

The bullfrog is an invasive species in Wyoming. American bullfrogs are native to the eastern United States. The Cowboy State lacks predators accustomed to feeding on bullfrogs and the invasive species can quickly overwhelm the area and put native amphibians at risk. According to Game and Fish Public Information Specialist Christina Schimdt, these invasive frogs eat almost anything they can fit in their mouths, causing substantial damage to native ecosystems.

During an appearance on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse, Schimdt said the bullfrog’s mating season is about to begin. The American bullfrog is much larger than native amphibians and emits a bull-like bellow.

Unfortunately, Schmidt said there is no technique available that can rid the area of the American bullfrog, but Game and Fish is developing a map containing documented bullfrog locations. G&F asks that if found, mark the location on a GPS and notify the G&F office at 672-7418. Find multiple sources online to learn the call of an American bullfrog.