Posted by Jane Wadden on June 9, 2004

Q: 1. Do frogs shed their skin? Do they eat their skin?

2. What can you tell me about European fire ants?

Apparently they have been found in a small greenspace in Toronto.

Thanks - this is the best website! :)

A: Yes, frogs do shed their skin (so do toads and salamanders). Some of the frogs do eat their own skins but I don't have details on the specific species. Often these amphibia will begin swallowing their skin before it is completely off and the act of swallowing helps in its removal.

I didn't find information on the ants in Toronto but did for Maine. If they're making it in Maine, they can certainly make it in Toronto as well. It's not clear when these ants were introduced into North America but they have expanded their range considerably since the 50's along the Maine coast. These ants are able to sting and in some cases have made use of backyards, schoolyards, and park areas unuseable. Unlike the fire ants that have been introduced from South America into the southern U.S., the European Fire Ant is winter hardy and can tolerate our severe winters - they look like they're here to stay. If they have been found in a specific area of Toronto, I'm sure officials will do what they can to erradicate them before they're able to spread.

Here's a site you may want to check out: www.umesci.maine.edu

John Wiessinger ( June 9, 2004)