True story day-in-the-life of Dr. Margot Fass
Written by: Dr. Margot Fass and Kerry Calkins
Photo credits: Evelyn
It all started with a phone call.
“Would you come to Macedon to rescue it?” Evelyn asked.
The “it” turned out to be a vulnerable frog, and not just any frog. A juvenile gray tree frog, hopping around with what looked like its stomach hanging out of its mouth – It was the kind of thing you might expect to see in a science book, not your backyard.
But this wasn’t the end of the story. It was the beginning of a rescue.
A Surprising Call for Help
Evelyn had found the little frog and was immediately worried. She was afraid she might have stepped on it. But instead of walking away, she called for help.
And I’m so glad she did.
What looked alarming was actually something that some frogs do when they’re in trouble, it’s called gastric eversion. Basically, when a frog eats something harmful, it can’t throw up like we do. So instead, it pushes its entire stomach out through its mouth to get rid of whatever’s bothering it. Then, it uses its front feet to wipe the stomach clean before pulling it back in.
Creating a Little Oasis
After I explained what was going on, Evelyn didn’t hesitate. She wanted to help and started building a little sanctuary in her garden: a quiet, shady spot with a shallow dish of water, just right for a recovering frog.
Gray tree frogs love water. While they don’t swim like fish, they rely on shallow water to soak, hydrate, and stay cool, especially during hot days. Here’s why water matters so much to them:
- Hydration: Their skin acts like a sponge, soaking up water from the environment.
- Cooling: Water helps regulate their body temperature, and provides oxygen.
- Bathing: It helps them clean off dirt and debris.
- Breeding: They lay eggs in or near water, so it’s essential for reproduction.
In the wild, gray tree frogs are found near ponds, swamps, and wetlands. This one may have come from a pool 6 houses down, or a creek that runs behind the neighborhood. But a backyard birdbath or garden dish can be just as helpful for one in need.
Evelyn’s little garden oasis gave this frog exactly what it needed: time, moisture, and a safe place to rest.
A Happy Ending
Later that day, Evelyn sent a message:
“So good news! When his little oasis was ready, I went to move him and his insides were no longer showing! He’s now relaxing in his new spot. Thanks so much for your help!!”
Just like that, worry turned into relief. This one small frog made our day. Evelyn even named the small frog Margot!
The Heart of the Story
This wasn’t a big rescue mission. There were no lab coats or special equipment. Just one person who cared enough to stop, ask questions, and make space for a creature in need.
Frogs are among the most threatened animals on Earth1, yet they often go unobserved, silent guests in our gardens and woods. But when someone like Evelyn takes the time to notice, something beautiful happens.
If you ever find a little animal in trouble, remember this story. You don’t need to be an expert. You just need a kind heart, a bowl of water, a patch of shade, and a bit of hope.
Sometimes, that’s all it takes to save a life.
Citation
- Stuart, S. N., Chanson, J. S., Cox, N. A., Young, B. E., Rodrigues, A. S. L., Fischman, D. L., & Waller, R. W. (2004). Status and trends of amphibian declines and extinctions worldwide. Science, 306(5702), 1783–1786. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1103538
