Rainy season comes and the firmament opens. Puddles and pools form in every low spot. From the puddles you might hear soft noises somewhere between a duck quacking and a person sawing wood. And if you track down the source of the sounds, you will see Common Puddle Frogs merrily floating.

The Common Puddle Frog is only about an inch long, and rarely leaves the vicinity of water. It looks like it would be quite vulnerable. In fact, it is incredibly resilient. I have seen puddle frogs in forest and in fields, in polluted Manila drains and on the edge of resort swimming pools. In a world where many frogs are disappearing, the Common Puddle Frog is one that is holding on quite well.

The most striking thing about a puddle frog are its eyes. The frog’s large eyes are placed on the top of the head and are noticeably upturned. This is because it spends so much of its time floating in the water with only the head exposed. Those upturned eyes can spot any predator coming from above or even behind, at which point the frog will immediately dive into the mud and leaf litter at the bottom of the pool.

Where do they live?

They can be found in puddles, pools, flooded fields and marshes in lowlands and low hills.

What do they eat?

The Common Puddle Frog eats insects and spiders. If you are lucky enough to see a puddle frog eat you will find it is rather cute, as it sticks its arms forward with fingers spread to try to catch the food, then pulls back with those arms to shove whatever it catches towards its mouth.

Are they dangerous?

They are not dangerous at all.

Are they in danger?

There is no known dangers to the Common Puddle Frog. They appear able to exploit very small and very polluted water bodies, so they can be found just about anywhere.

What is their scientific name and classification?

The Common Puddle Frog is scientifically known as Occidozyga laevis. It is a member of the Ranid family, frogs which are known as “True Frogs” because they have the most well-known frog shape.

Puddle frogs can be identified by their small size, plump bodies, plump legs, and upturned eyes, but they come in an impressive variety of colors even in a single location.

Some of the incredible variety of Common Puddle Frogs seen in the Philippines

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When will you see the first puddle frog this year? Keep your eyes out for the little guys!