Class Mascot: The Southern Leopard Frog

 I believe that Lithobates sphenacephalus, or the Southern Leopard Frog should be our class mascot. 

Reason One

Lithobates sphenacephalus is a long, slender frog with powerful hind limbs.They have golden colored dorsolateral ridges on both sides of their body that extend the full length. However, their most distinctive feature is their large, dark round spots that resemble those of a large cat. Given their distinguishable pattern and shape, I am positive that the entire class could correctly identify these frogs. Their iconic appearance is one reason this frog should be our mascot.

Reason Two 

The Southern Leopard Frog, abundant throughout the eastern United States, can be found just about anywhere near shallow water. Southern Leopard Frogs are nocturnal meaning they are active at night and rest during the day. However, this did not stop us from finding these frogs on two different occasions. The fact that we were able to capture these frogs during their 'night time' shows how abundant these frogs are in South Carolina.

Reason Three

These frogs also are very beneficial for humans. Not only do Southern Leopard Frogs eat a lot of pesky insects that humans dislike such as mosquitoes, they also serve as cadavers for students to dissect and learn about science.

The Southern Leopard Frog is a highly distinguishable and abundant frog that should be our class mascot.