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Where do most frogs and toads lay their eggs?
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frog and toad
The natterjack toad (Bufo calamita) lives in northern Europe.
Most frogs and toads deposit their eggs in quiet water, such as ponds or pools, where they may be laid as clumps, surface films, strings, or individual eggs. These eggs are often attached to submerged vegetation or sticks, though some species lay them in streams, typically securing them to the undersides or lee sides of rocks to protect them from the current.1
While aquatic deposition is the most common method, many species exhibit a trend toward breeding away from water. Some frogs lay their eggs on land—often in moist environments like damp soil—and subsequently transport the tadpoles to water. Other variations include:234
- Vegetation: Certain species deposit eggs on leaves or stems overhanging streams or ponds, allowing the tadpoles to drop into the water upon hatching.43
- Foam Nests: Some families create protective foam nests in aquatic, terrestrial, or arboreal habitats.4
- Parental Care: Some frogs carry eggs on their bodies, such as in a pouch or on the back, or within the vocal sac, until they are ready to hatch.24