Georgia’s Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division is sounding the alarm over the presence of invasive Cuban tree frogs in the state.
Discovered in 2023, these frogs, known for their voracious appetite and ability to grow as large as a human hand, pose a threat to native wildlife.
Ecological Concerns and Geographic Spread Raise Alarms
Biologist Daniel Sollenberger expressed concerns about the ecological damage these frogs could cause. Initially from Cuba, the Bahamas, and the Cayman Islands, the Cuban tree frogs have been documented spreading outside Georgia, impacting native species in Florida and even appearing as far north as Vermont, according to US Geological Survey maps.
The frogs, which can exceed 6 inches in length, have large toe pads and come in various colors, from gray to bronze and olive green. Sollenberger warns that they outsize native tree frogs significantly.
While there’s anecdotal evidence from Florida suggesting that Cuban tree frogs may reduce native frog populations, Sollenberger emphasizes that these invasive frogs struggle with colder temperatures.
Still, with warmer spots found in infrastructure and the influence of global warming, they manage to survive farther north.
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Georgia Wildlife Officials Seek Public Help in Managing Invasive Species
To curb their spread, Sollenberger advises residents to eliminate standing water on their properties and remove the frogs when spotted.
A recommended method involves using Orajel, a pain relief medication containing benzocaine, a local anesthetic, to immobilize the frogs. Additionally, freezing them for 24 hours ensures they perish from the benzocaine.
Residents are encouraged to report sightings to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division to aid in monitoring and managing this invasive species.
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