Frogs in the Shade

I've talked before about turtles basking in the sun; as ectotherms they need solar help to regulate their body temperature. And I've shown dragonflies that try to limit their sun exposure on hot days using body positioning. Back in mid-July I saw a couple frogs making use of shading. 

Admittedly I also saw some frogs completely in the sun and others beneath the heavy shade of a tree, but these 2 appeared to be seeking out shade. 

I also wonder if they're getting a little protection from avian predators. While their biggest threat from birds probably comes from herons that find prey by wading through water and would get a side view of the frogs, it's at least conceivable that guys like ospreys, cormorants, or kingfishers could be looking to swoop down from above to get a froggy meal.

American Bullfrog
July 15, 2022 at Sourland Mountain Preserve
Photo 221317752, (c) jpviolette, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC)

Green Frog
July 15, 2022 at Sourland Mountain Preserve
Photo 221321218, (c) jpviolette, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC)



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