Explore and Discover Frozen Wood Frogs!

North Carolina is home to FOUR different species of frogs that can survive freezing. Spring peepers, two species of gray tree frog, and wood frogs all have this amazing adaptation. Watch this epic video created by the Smithsonian Channel to learn more about wood frogs and how they survive harsh winters. Then check out our questions to reflect on what you learned!

Video link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLPeehsXAr4

1. What is the lowest temperature at which a wood frog can survive?
2. How does a wood frog prepare for the “big freeze”?
3. What does the liver make to prevent the wood frog’s cells from dehydrating while frozen?
4. What components are needed in the wood frog’s blood in order to make its “homemade antifreeze”?
5. How does this “homemade antifreeze” help the wood frog survive being frozen?
6. As a “frogsicle,” what fraction of the wood frog’s body is frozen?

For a downloadable version of these questions (and a bonus activity about wood frog circulatory systems) check out: Science Explorations: Frogsicles

Then check your answers here: Science Explorations: Frogsicles (Answers)

If you want to learn more about the Smithsonian Channel, visit their website at smithsonianchannel.com