What Animals Eat Tadpoles?

A tadpole consists of the larval stage in the life cycle of a frog or toad. Tadpoles are amphibians that consume algae and plant material. Because of their size and location, many tadpoles are prey victims of various reptiles, fish, mammals, amphibians and birds. Unfortunately, there is not much tadpoles can do to survive the attacks of their predators.

  1. Reptiles

    • Aquatic reptiles are a threat to tadpoles. For example, water snakes, alligators, crocodiles and snapping turtles all consume tadpoles as part of their diet. The young aquatic reptiles especially love tadpoles, while adults tend to ignore them because of their small size to attack full-grown frogs instead.

    Fish

    • Most fish like to consume tadpoles. Both bass and carp especially love to eat tadpoles.

    Mammals

    • Both semi-aquatic and land mammal consume tadpoles. Many mammals eat tadpoles, including raccoons, skunks, possums, skunks and otters.

    Amphibians

    • Adult frogs and toads usually prey on insects, smaller frogs and smaller fish. Many frog species practice cannibalism by consuming tadpoles, especially when other food sources are limited.

    Birds

    • Water birds that are predatory, such as great blue herons, consume tadpoles. Birds whose diet consists primarily of fish and water invertebrates are a threat to tadpoles.