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Frog spawn under the tree in October. (UK) (1 Viewer)

For several years in the spring I have found lumps of frog spawn on the drive, under an oak tree. I came to the conclusion a bird was catching frogs in the pond at the rear and perching in the tree whilst eating the frog.

But, a few says ago I found the same again. Frog spawn in October?

Also, as the second image shows, I think a frog was eaten.

So. any suggestions as to which bird (assuming my theory is correct)?

I have never seen the "culprit" but speculate it is a heron.
But, we live near the sea, could it be a seagull or something else?

Apologies if this is in the wrong forum.
 

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Herons swallow frogs whole so not that. A corvid or buzzard maybe, assuming it's a bird, or a mammal.

The spawn develops quite early in the female frogs, ready to be laid in the spring at the normal time, so I don't think that aspect is unusual.
 
Thanks for the responses.
I've lived in this area all my life and never seen it before. But the climate is changing.

I doubt if it's a mammal. More likely a corvid or buzzard. Lots of both locally. Magpies are quite active.

How about a seagull?
 
Thanks for the responses.
I've lived in this area all my life and never seen it before. But the climate is changing.

I doubt if it's a mammal. More likely a corvid or buzzard. Lots of both locally. Magpies are quite active.

How about a seagull?

Could be anything that preys on small amphibians, but is impartial to frog's legs. Cat, fox, etc. I think a heron or large gull would swallow it whole as mentioned.
But at least the "alien jelly" is not something sinister.
 
I think magpie is the most likely candidate.
Buzzards fly over but I have never seen one land near the house.
When I was a lad hardly ever saw a magpie. Now lots around.
 
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