Frogs

Frogs and/or toads are the other iconic symbol for Davis (the more common symbol being a penny-farthing bicycle). Various local artists, including David Gilhooly, Heidi Bekebrede, and others have used this motif. So has Lyon Real Estate in their famous Frog Signs. Davis is also home of the famous Toad Tunnel. Toad Hollow Dog Park is just beyond.

Toads spend most of their time on land while frogs prefer water.

Large numbers of Pacific tree frogs (Pseudacris regilla) can be heard (in mid February) "ribbiiting" near West Pond. Pacific Tree Frogs are the only species of frog that "ribbit". They are also called "Chorus Frogs" because during the mating season they migrate back to the water source of their birth and the males make a chorus of "ribbits" to attract a mate. When a lot of these frogs get together the resulting choir can be quite spectacular, as they start and stop "ribbiting" at the same time. The female needs water to lay eggs so their mating season in Davis will vary depending whether the water source is permanent or temporary.

Frog egg sack with moving tadpolges inside