Pelobates syriacus

East Mediterranean species, a sister species of wide-spread European P. fuscus, although with over 7-8 millions of years period of independent evolution (Veith et al., 2006). Lives in open landscape, prefering clay soils. Breeds in relatively deep (at least 40-50 cm) and stable ponds and pools. Although not a rare animal, is very rarely seen, because conducts extremely hidden mode of life. Enters water for only few days in spring. Egg clumps cord-shaped, but eggs light-brown different from the toad eggs. Tadpoles in June become very large, with a maximum body size of almost chicken-egg size.