Goliath frog

Conraua goliath

Fascinating Facts

• As the largest frog, they can be 12 inches long and weigh 7 pounds!
• Goliath frog tadpoles are the same size as any other frog, they just keep growing!
• Mainly endangered due to extensive hunting by humans for food, but they are also affected by deforestation and dam construction.
• Approximately 300 goliath frogs are sent to the US every year for races and frog jumping competitions.
• They lack a vocal sac, and cannot therefore make mating calls.

Habitat/Diet

Fast-flowing rivers and cascades, with sandy or rocky bottoms. Goliath frog tadpoles are picky eaters and only eat a specific plant endemic to their own small geographic range. Adults eat insects, crustaceans, fish, and other amphibians, but will occasionally eat small mammals, birds, or even bats!

Status in the Wild

Endangered – IUCN 2004

Range

Rainforests at the equator of western Africa, near swift-moving rivers and waterfalls.

Location in the Zoo

Fish and Amphibians Zone of the Sculpture Learning Plaza