Are There Bullfrogs in Missouri?
Yes, bullfrogs are common throughout Missouri, found in ponds, marshes, streams, and wetlands across the state. These large frogs thrive in our warm summers and abundant water habitats, making them one of Missouri's most recognizable amphibians. Their deep calls during breeding season are a distinctive summer sound in Missouri.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated August 6, 2026.
Yes, bullfrogs are common throughout Missouri, found in ponds, marshes, streams, and wetlands across the state. These large frogs thrive in our warm summers and abundant water habitats, making them one of Missouri's most recognizable amphibians. Their deep calls during breeding season are a distinctive summer sound in Missouri.
Where in Missouri Bullfrogs Are Found
Bullfrogs occur statewide in Missouri, from the Mississippi River bottoms in the east to the Ozark highland streams and springs. They thrive in the marshy areas around Mingo National Wildlife Refuge in southeast Missouri and throughout the Ozark lakes including Table Rock Lake and Stockton Lake. The Mississippi River floodplain provides extensive habitat, as do the various detention lakes and reservoirs across the state. Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge near Chariton supports strong bullfrog populations, and they are abundant in the Clarence Cannon National Wildlife Refuge region. Smaller water bodies and farm ponds throughout the state also harbor bullfrogs. Visit/wildlife/missourito explore other amphibians and reptiles found in the state's wetlands. Seethe Bullfrog guide for Missourifor more.
Season and Timing of Bullfrogs in Missouri
Bullfrogs breed from April through August in Missouri, with peak activity and calling in June and July. Males begin calling in late spring to establish territories and attract females, creating the loud, distinctive 'jug-o-rum' sound that echoes across wetlands. Tadpoles can take two to three years to develop into froglets, which is why bullfrogs remain active through late summer and early fall. Adult frogs can be heard calling on warm, humid evenings throughout the breeding season. By late fall, they seek deeper water or burrow into mud for the winter, becoming dormant until spring warming returns. The best time to observe/wildlife/missouri/bullfrogis from May through August when temperatures are warm and water levels are stable. Seethe Missouri wildlife guidefor more.
How to Identify a Bullfrog
Bullfrogs are Missouri's largest native frogs, reaching four to eight inches in length. Their skin is smooth and typically green to olive-brown, often with darker blotches or patterns on the back. The most reliable identification feature is the large tympanum (ear drum), which is about the same size as the eye and lies behind it. Male bullfrogs have a yellow throat pouch and are somewhat larger than females. Their powerful hind legs make them excellent swimmers and jumpers. The distinctive call sounds like a deep 'jug-o-rum' or 'jug-o-roo,' which is unmistakable once heard. Bullfrogs lack the ridges found on true frogs, giving them a smooth appearance that sets them apart from other large Missouri frogs. Their coloring helps them blend into muddy banks and vegetation.
Where Bullfrog Sightings Concentrate in Missouri
Bullfrogs are most abundant in permanent water bodies with emergent vegetation like cattails and rushes. Large shallow lakes, ponds, and wetland margins are prime habitats. Mingo National Wildlife Refuge, located in Stoddard County in southeast Missouri, has excellent bullfrog populations in its marsh management units. The oxbow lakes and backwater areas along the Mississippi River from Cape Girardeau northward support many bullfrogs. Tradewater Lake, near the Missouri River, and similar oxbow lakes throughout the central Ozark region are productive bullfrog habitats. Shallow bays of Stockton Lake in southwest Missouri consistently support bullfrogs. Farm ponds and private wetlands, especially those with stable water levels and good vegetation, often harbor them. Check/wildlifefor information about visiting these habitats responsibly.
Typical Bullfrog Behavior in Missouri
Bullfrogs are sit-and-wait predators that hunt from the water's edge or shallow water. They feed on insects, smaller frogs, crayfish, and occasionally small mammals or birds. Adult bullfrogs are highly territorial, especially during breeding season, and males will aggressively defend their calling sites. They are primarily nocturnal hunters but can be active during the day in cooler weather. Bullfrogs are strong swimmers but prefer to stay close to vegetation and structure. They rely on powerful hind legs to propel themselves through water and to launch sudden strikes at prey. When threatened, they produce a startled squawk and leap quickly away. Tadpoles are herbivorous and graze on algae and aquatic plants, playing an important role in the food web by processing large amounts of vegetation.
Coexistence and Safety Notes
Bullfrogs are fully protected by Missouri wildlife regulations and cannot be collected without a valid amphibian collection permit. They are native to Missouri and are thriving, so there are no conservation concerns about the species statewide. Bullfrogs are generally harmless to humans, though their powerful legs and sharp teeth mean rough handling can cause injury. They play an important ecological role as both predators and prey, feeding on insects while serving as food for wading birds, snakes, and mammals. In their native range in Missouri, bullfrogs support healthy ecosystems. When visiting wetland areas, always stay on designated trails and avoid disturbing calling males during breeding season. Their calls and presence indicate healthy wetlands that support diverse wildlife. Respect these amphibians as part of Missouri's natural heritage.
Common Species People Confuse with Bullfrogs
The Green Frog is the species most often confused with bullfrogs, as it is also large and green. However, Green Frogs have a prominent ridge running down each side of their back, which bullfrogs lack. Green Frogs also have a smaller tympanum relative to their eye size. The American Bullfrog's call is distinctly different, sounding more like 'jug-o-rum,' while Green Frogs produce a more metallic 'jug' or 'gunk' sound. The Pig Frog, found in southern Missouri, is smaller and has a more pointed snout. Leopard Frogs, though smaller and spotted, can be mistaken for bullfrogs by inexperienced observers, but lack the large circular ear and are active during the day rather than being primarily nocturnal. The Carpenter Frog, also southern, is much smaller and has a different call pattern. Learning the distinctive features and calls of each species makes identification easier.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bullfrogs
Q: What do bullfrogs eat? A: Adult bullfrogs eat insects, smaller frogs, crayfish, small snakes, and occasionally small birds or mammals. Tadpoles are herbivorous, feeding on algae and aquatic vegetation. Q: How long do bullfrogs live? A: In the wild, bullfrogs typically live 7 to 9 years, though some individuals in captivity have lived longer. Q: Why are there so many bullfrogs in spring? A: Spring warming triggers breeding behavior, and males begin calling to attract mates, making them much more noticeable. Tadpoles from the previous year also begin metamorphosing into froglets. Q: Can I keep a bullfrog as a pet? A: Missouri regulations require a permit to collect any amphibian, including bullfrogs. Check with the Missouri Department of Conservation for current regulations and permit requirements.
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