I know Bullfrogs are not good for a pond, but are other types of frogs OK to put in a pond?

Bullfrogs are not entirely bad for a pond, it just depends on the size of the frogs compared to the size of your fish. The reason I say bullfrogs aren’t always bad for your pond is that they can help with pest control. I basically describe bullfrogs as the disposal units of a pond, since they will eat anything that walks in front of them. Insects, rodents, small snakes, some birds, and even each other! However, if your fish aren’t’ big enough they can quickly become a tasty meal. So how do you keep bullfrogs from eating your fish?

Safely keeping bullfrogs in your pond

As long as your koi are large enough, there is a low chance of losing them to a bullfrog. I generally say six inches or bigger is a safe size. This also depends entirely on the size of your bullfrogs too. If you have some incredibly big boys in your pond, then I would try to relocate them away from your fish. Remember, bullfrogs will eat anything that can fit in their mouth. As long as your koi are larger than that, I think you’ll be fine.

What frogs are safe for a fish pond?

If you don’t want bullfrogs because of their size, then try wood frogs or chorus frogs as these guys only get about 5 to 6 inches in size. They also will winter over just like a bullfrog.

Probably the best way to keep them at your pond is to buy them in the tadpole stage. That way, they grow up around your pond, and they are more than likely not so inclined to wander off. Just be careful, since fish love to snack on tadpoles. My kids made that mistake once and saw firsthand how much fish love them. Yikes! If you don’t feel like sacrificing your baby frogs, I suggest separating them until they are large enough not to be eaten by your koi.

Caring for frogs in your pond

Frogs love lily pads. They prefer to ambush their prey and don’t like to move around too much if they don’t have to. If you want to keep bullfrogs around your pond, make sure you have plenty of plant coverage.

Another thing to keep in mind is that frogs, like other animals that have access to your pond, can introduce parasites to your fish. If you do decide to keep amphibians in your backyard pond, keep an eye out for parasites, worms, or sick fish. Make sure you quickly treat your pond with the appropriate medication.

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