On November 7, 1970, in Senfisip, Malaysia, a shocking event occurred: Thousands of frogs engaged in a fierce hand-to-hand battle, biting and tearing at each other amidst deafening croaks. This frog war lasted for an entire week. By the time zoologists arrived at the scene, only eggs, tadpoles, and the remains of dead frogs were left scattered around.
 |
(Image: physorg) |
The war among frogs is not uncommon. It is likely a normal phenomenon during the breeding season of frogs. These battles typically occur after a prolonged dry spell followed by rain in the morning. Heavy rainfall creates favorable conditions for the development of eggs and tadpoles. Due to the long drought, the eggs that have matured inside the frogs could not be laid and had to wait. So when the rain comes, frogs rush to lay their eggs. Males compete for prime spots, croaking loudly to attract mates, leading them to congregate in suitable water areas for mating. During the mating process, males chase and embrace females, with two or three males vying for a single female, resulting in conflict.
Even without the frog wars, some still die—why is that? Frogs lack aggressive weapons and do not have the ability to inflict serious harm on each other. The reasons for their deaths may include the following:
- Females carrying heavy eggs may suffocate if held too tightly by the males.
- Frogs that have gone through a period of hibernation may be weak and exhaust themselves during their strenuous mating, leading to death after laying their eggs.
- Frogs under strong stimulation may secrete toxic substances, causing poisoning and death among their kind.
These explanations are merely conjectures; the actual causes remain a subject for further research by biologists.
