For those in North America, creating a natural habitat in your backyard will help attract native frog species, like this bullfrog. (Photo by Brian Gratwicke, Panama Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project)

It happens every year about this time, and despite the fact there’s a fresh layer of snow on the ground in Colorado Springs, spring fever is setting in. I’m already looking forward to spending time in the yard, pruning and planting. As you begin to plan your garden for the year, why not keep the bugs at bay naturally by creating a backyard oasis for amphibians? Frogs and toads gobble up mosquitoes and other insects, which are not only a nuisance, but can carry diseases like West Nile Virus.

The National Wildlife Federation has some great tips for easy water features to make frogs and toads feel right at home. You can purchase pre-formed pond liners at your local garden center, or use a flexible pond liner to create a custom shape. Place your pond in a spot where it will receive some direct sun (avoid full sun for the entire day), and plant native grasses and other vegetation around the edge. Be sure there’s a ledge to provide gradual depth change, which allows critters to get in and out easily. You can also stack rocks or logs to help them. It’s best not to add chlorine. Instead, add a bucket of water from a nearby natural pond or stream, which will introduce all kinds of organisms to help keep your pond healthy. Adding a little barley straw will limit algae growth as well.

No room for a pond? Try placing a toad abode in a shady spot near a large saucer of water. Just turn a ceramic flowerpot upside down and prop the edge up with a rock so toads can get in and out.

Most importantly, never purchase or move frogs or toads to your backyard, which could end up killing them. Remember, if you build it, they will come. Check out the National Wildlife Federation for more backyard habitat ideas!

—Katie Borremans, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo