The continuing mild weather is encouraging the garden amphibians to be ever more active, though we're yet to witness the breeding frenzy of the frogs. Last year spawning was late February, so it's about the right time to be watching closely.
As it is there were four or five frogs visible this evening at different times (if I count the ones under the surface).
The newts were too numerous to count. I tried, but kept losing them is the weed as they dived for cover. The males, who seem generally more cautious of the light, are sporting their mating colours. The body lightens somewhat and they develop large darkened blotches. They also have a tendency to dive for cover when the torchlight catches them.
No signs of any toads yet, but that's not unexpected. We have far fewer of them and they are likely to be out on dry land and out of range of the camera. The newts do venture out occasionally (we find them under piles of dry leaves). They also like to bask in the moonlight.
More images from tonight in the Amphibians album.
Camera note: all tonights shots were taken with the Sigma 105mm F2.8 EX DG macro lens.
sprogger
13 Feb 2008Excellent shots again:up:
SittingFox
13 Feb 2008You certainly do have a marvellous community of amphibians in your pond! I really like that shot of the newt and the bubbles – excellent!
Words
14 Feb 2008Thanks Sprogger!
Words
14 Feb 2008Adele, yes the pond is excelling itself this year. I liked the air bubbles too!
Flying Red Fox Blog
14 Feb 2008Lovelly pics, i wish i had a pond:P