Every year, we get countless emails asking, “Do you sell frogspawn?” The answer is always no - and for good reason. While it might seem like a simple way to introduce frogs to your garden, moving frogspawn can do far more harm than good.

If you want to encourage frogs and toads to your pond, the best approach is to let nature take its course. With the right conditions, amphibians will find their way naturally and your garden will soon become a haven for these fantastic creatures.

Why You Should Never Move Frogspawn

You’ve built your pond and can’t wait to see it full of life—but don’t be tempted to collect frogspawn from the wild or accept it from a friend. Moving spawn between ponds is strongly discouraged, as it can spread disease and disrupt local amphibian populations. Let nature do the work!

• It’s Illegal to Sell or Trade Frogspawn
  Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it is illegal to sell or trade frogspawn, tadpoles or any native amphibian species. This law exists to protect natural populations and prevent unnecessary interference.

• Risk of Spreading Deadly Diseases
  Moving frogspawn, tadpoles or even pond water spreads diseases like ranavirus and chytrid fungus, which have caused serious declines in UK amphibians. These diseases can wipe out local populations and spread rapidly, devastating frogs, toads and newts in the process.

• Frogs and Toads Lay Huge Amounts of Spawn for a Reason
  Nature has a plan! Amphibians lay hundreds, even thousands of eggs because only a small percentage will make it to adulthood. This is completely normal and interfering can disrupt natural selection.

• Frogs and Toads Will Find Your Pond on Their Own
  You don’t need to introduce frogspawn - if your pond is suitable, they will come! Frogs and toads are widespread across the UK, but they need the right conditions to thrive. Create a welcoming space and amphibians will soon appear.

What If I Find Frogspawn in a Drying Puddle?

It might feel cruel to leave frogspawn in a puddle that’s drying up, but this is part of nature’s cycle. While it’s heartbreaking to see, remember that amphibians lay huge numbers of eggs precisely because many won’t survive.

The best approach is to let nature take its course. If you move the spawn, you risk spreading disease. Instead, focus on creating a suitable wildlife pond where frogs and toads can lay eggs safely in the future.

What If a Friend or Neighbour Offers You Frogspawn?

Even if a friend or neighbour offers you some frogspawn, it’s best to say no. Moving spawn between ponds can spread diseases like ranavirus and chytrid fungus, which can devastate local amphibian populations. Instead of relocating spawn, focus on creating the right habitat - if your pond is suitable, frogs and toads will find it naturally. Be patient and let nature take care of the rest!