Little frogs dressed all in blue

This month's image is dedicated to some truly fascinating amphibians. They are called moor frogs (Rana arvalis) and live in wetlands across Europe. The lakes and meadows in the Oberlausitz (Upper Lusatia) near our home in Eastern Germany are also among their habitats. These frogs are relatively small, only up to 6 centimeters long, and typically brown in color, blending well with their surroundings. However, for a short time each spring, something remarkable happens: the males moor frogs turn bright blue. But only for just a couple of days. And we never managed to get the timing right ... up to March 21, 2025! :-)

This stunning transformation occurs during the mating season, in the Oberlausitz usually between late March and early April. The exact timing always depends on local weather conditions. As the ice melts and temperatures rise, moor frogs gather in shallow, sun-warmed ponds to reproduce. That's when the males undergo a dramatic color change and become highly visible in the water. Why do they do this? Well... male always do a lot of funny things to catch the attention of the females, don't they? ;-)

But that's not the main reason here! The blue coloration not only allows them to stand out and distinguish themselves from other competing males. It is also a strong and effective visual sign that helps keep all the other lovefool males at a safe distance. They don't want to be constantly bothered by them.
Once the very short mating season is over, the males quickly lose their blue color. Just a very few days later they return to their usual brown tones. 

It was so much fun seeing these little creatures! And the surroundings could hardly have been better. In case you are wondering where the golden tones come from: That's the reflection of the reeds in the pond, illuminated by the setting sun. And a light breeze caused some movement on the water's surface.

Absolutely amazing! And we are very much looking forward to seeing more moor frogs next year.
To be continued... ;-)

Please feel free to check out all our other frog images in the -> Oberlausitz Galleries.

 
Image data: 1/1600 s at f/9, ISO 2000; Canon RF 100-500 mm, f4.5-7.1 L IS USM at 500 mm at the Canon EOS R5