Backyard Nature: Frogs in Broad Branch Stream

by Marlene Berlin

Signs of spring are popping out everywhere, so a few days ago I headed over to Broad Branch and Linnean Streams to look for two of my favorite springtime creatures – tadpoles and frogs.

I found both, and both were very difficult to catch with my camera. The frogs were gone in a flash as soon as I approached. And most of the tadpoles that had been lazing about ducked for cover.

I managed to sneak up one a few days later.

And at one pond, I looked up from my frustrating search for tadpoles and found a mallard couple. They paid me no heed. Perhaps we will have ducklings in Broad Branch Stream again.

And on my way back home on 30th Street I found my first grape hyacinths.

I need to get out at night to check on the status of the frog chorus. I have yet to hear the American toads, a sound I look forward to usually as early as February. But have not heard them yet. Has anyone?