Many are the frogs.
Yesterday the pond was a rippling mass of hopeful frogs. We counted 34, including 2 pairs in amplexus. This is a new record; the most we’d ever counted before was around 26, I think.
There are about 10 clumps of spawn already, all in two large clusters at the shallow end. Most of the males seem quite small this year. I’m hoping to see our distinctive brick red female again this year, which will be our pond’s 4th breeding season.
I counted 16 males in this photo of the shallow end of the pond.
The Foraging Photographer 
You beat me to it, Lucy. 😉
Maybe it’s a little warmer down here in the south, Mike? It was March before we had spawn last year.
A new record? Send them to Sotsji, Lucy!
Well, I’m glad that spring has begun.
They’re so full of energy that they could probably hop there themselves, Charles!
Ye gods and little fishes!(Or, rather, frogs!)
😀
It’s nice when you become familiar with one of the wild creatures in the garden like your red frog.
It’s nice to feel that connection with the creatures who visit the garden. 🙂
Love seeing the froggies!!
They’re cute aren’t they Phil… but then I think that about your alligators! 😀
Very educational, Lucy – I look forward to working the word ‘amplexus’ into my conversation. Regularly. RH
😀 Have you managed to drop it in to casual conversation yet RH?
Yes indeed: “Good evening. How do you do? How nice to meet you. Are you aware that politicians caught in flagrante may be committing ‘sexual MP amplexus’ ” (anag.)
😀