What appeared to be dark specks on the outside of an Orlando home turned out to be dozens of tiny froglets clinging to the walls after several days of rain, according to Fox 35 News.
The homeowner, DeGregory, initially thought the scattered marks were small dark spots. Neighbors later said they were seeing similar froglets on nearby homes.
Experts believe the young frogs are most likely Cuban tree frogs, an invasive species found across Florida. Because the froglets were not examined in person, the identification remains provisional.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission says Cuban tree frogs can harm local ecosystems by competing with native frogs and sometimes preying on them.
Ron Magill of the ZooMiami Foundation said the suspected froglets should not be confused with large cane toads, which are far more dangerous to pets. He said a dog that bites or eats one of these frogs may experience an upset stomach or vomiting, but the froglets do not have the same toxic substance associated with large cane toads.
Magill advised people to avoid handling the frogs when possible, since even small froglets can have skin substances that irritate human skin or eyes. He also said concentrated clusters generally last only a few days before the young frogs become more mobile and disperse.
Homeowners who continue to have a problem can contact FWC for help identifying the animals. If they are confirmed as invasive Cuban tree frogs, the agency can provide guidance on humane euthanasia.
