by L Wiles - 2008-08-01
Catching frogs is a very active, often dangerous activity not for the faint of heart. Extreme caution should be used when catching frogs. This can be done with just one highly skilled frog hunter, but it is far safer to hunt frogs in a group, they can be quite dangerous.
First and foremost be safe. Frogs can be surprisingly dangerous creatures. Don't get lulled into a false sense of security because they are small or you think they are cute.
You can opt to keep your frogs if you have adequately prepared a new home for them, but I very much recommend simply letting them go after you have proven your hunting abilities against these terrifying creatures. It's better for everyone, especially Mom.
Get together your hunting group, your safety gear and your frog containers. If you have a guide, follow him or her to where the frogs hang out - if not you may need to do a little research first to determine the best place to find frogs in you neighborhood.
As you near the best frog hunting spot, as determined by your frog hunting guide or your frog hunting research, be on the look out for the little jumping critters. If you are lucky (or unlucky) enough to see one in mid jump grab it with your hands and then quickly (but gently) shove it in your container and put the lid in place. If the frogs aren't jumping you may need to get really, really close to some pretty damp places or turn over a few rocks or logs. But be warned, if you lift a rock, log or other likely hiding spot one of those terrifying frogs may just jump at you. Be brave! Hold your own. Above all - don't panic! If you're quick enough and prepared enough when the slimy critter jumps, you can catch 'em in your container mid-jump.
Important note: it's a good idea to put just a drop or two of water in your container to help keep your captured beasts contently moist, but not too much or you will drown them - and that's just not fair hunting.
Once all frog hunters have proven their worth, it's time for the best part - the mass release. This is especially powerful if your group are really good hunters and have captured lots of long-legged, freaky frogs. For the next part you will want to select a spot that your captured critters will be able to thrive. We want them to live so you can come again to hunt another day. The best place is a spot very near where you captured them in the first place (they may have families too).
Now that you have selected your release location, all frog hunters line-up, containers at the ready. Someone give the signal (something like "ready, set, go") and everyone release all their frogs at one time. If all goes as planned, you will have a frenzy of frogs racing their way back to where they came and you will have the satisfaction of knowing you are a great frog hunter!
Some frogs truly are poisonous. If you do go frog hunting please make sure you know what kind of frogs are safe to catch in your area before you set out for a hunt.
Some frogs, especially rare species, are protected by law and you are not allowed to catch them. If you have any doubts about what frogs are okay to catch in your area check with your local authorities to clarify before you start your hunt.