Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I've had several bull frogs living in my inground
pool all summer. (Live in Massachusetts). I'm using
a chemical free system that uses copper ionization
and ozone to keep the pool clean, so there is no
chlorine or other harmful chemicals in the pool. The
frogs love it, and I really enjoy their presence.

Now it's time to close the pool. Last year I fished them
all out (29 last year!), putting them in the woods behind
the pool. I then closed the pool with a solid cover.

This year I've got about 9 bull frogs ranging from about 1 inch
to about 5 inches in size. In addtion, a nice looking
salamander about 6 in long. Can I close the pool with them
in it? If not, should I transport them to the nearest pond
and just set them free there? I've never had frogs as pets,
so I'm not sure if there's an issue just moving them to a
new water source (different water chemistry a problem?)

Any help would be appreciated, thanks!
...cj

I've attached a picture of the biggest one I've seen...this
is from last year...

Hi,
I'm not a frog expert, but I would not be inclined to close the pool up with the frogs in it.
I have three small garden pools, one with koi and goldfish, no plants; two with goldfish and plants. The point to this story is that the frogs have plant soil and a carpet of roots to settle into for the winter. These pools are only 16" deep and I use pool heaters to keep from freezing over. I also don't remove any plants, leaves, etc. until spring clean-up.
My three frogs winter over, stay until mid summer, go to (I assume) the pond in a nearby park (appro.1/4 mile away) then come back for the winter. Point being that by just closing off the swimming pool to them they will go to the nearest or the body of water of choice on their own. The sooner the better as the temps here in the N.East are getting close to the freezing mark. (Central CT for me)
My concern with your pool is egress for the frogs, and that covered them may come active if your water warms enough before their is a food source for them in the spring as temps flux.
A little winded responce, but I believe I lost a frog year before last for that reason with the pool heater. Frog was active early.
Hope this is of some help, others I'm sure can be of more value.