Invasive North American bullfrogs threaten German wildlife

The North American bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus) is spreading across Germany, posing a significant threat to local wildlife. Reaching up to 25 centimeters in size, these invasive amphibians lack natural predators in the region and are heavily impacting native species.

In Germany, the spread is particularly notable in the states of Baden-Württemberg and Rhineland-Palatinate. The bullfrogs compete with native water frogs for territory and consume a wide variety of prey, including insects, small mammals, birds, reptiles, and other amphibians. Their large tadpoles, which can reach 15 centimeters in length, also contribute to their dominance in aquatic ecosystems.