June 14, 2007 — It sounds like the plot of a B movie.
People scream after finding huge frogs in their toilet bowls. Electrified amphibians cause multiple blackouts. Frogs hitch rides in cars, later surprising unsuspecting drivers.
It's all real, and, according to the University of Florida, the invasive Cuban tree frog is responsible for the chaos. The species has colonized over half of Florida and is now moving in on the rest of the state. The 6-inch-long frogs, which dwarf native tiny tree frogs, have also been found in Georgia, South Carolina, California, Hawaii and Canada.
UF amphibian expert Steve Johnson told Discovery News that the frog "toilet surprise" has startled himself, numerous students and several friends.
"They come in through bathroom PVC vent pipes on the roof," Johnson explained. "Once they find moisture, they may just keep moving down until they make their way to the toilet, one of their favorite indoor destinations."
He added that the creamy white to light brown frogs can also clog up sinks. The bathroom attraction has to do with the frogs' preference for "confined, cozy" spaces, such as pipes.
The frogs first became established in Florida in the early 20th century, after the amphibians stowed away on boats. On land, almost any form of transportation can carry them from one region to another.
Johnson said Florida, California and Hawaii remain particularly vulnerable to such invasions.
The states contain numerous ports of entry. The problem also worsens, thanks to a "booming" pet trade. Johnson said he has seen Cuban tree frogs for sale at major U.S. pet store chains, despite the fact that the species releases a mild toxin from its skin that can burn the eyes of handlers.
When people tire of their exotic pet, they may then release it into the wild, thus adding to the invasive species problem.
The frogs then thrive in Florida's wetlands, not to mention the year-round warm conditions.
