But it's not uncommon for frogs to play dead in some way, says Andrew Gray, curator of herpetology at the Manchester Museum, U.K. Technically known as thanatosis, playing dead is a way to trick predators that watch for movement in potential prey. And as the nickname “playing possum” suggests, it's not unique to frogs.

What do frogs do when they feel threatened?

The amphibian is feeling very threatened if it starts oozing stuff and some can even 'squirt' it out at predators eyes, so keep your eyes protected and leave the amphibian alone.

Do common frogs play dead?

Frogs can sometimes let out a shrill shrieking noise when disturbed or picked up by pets, predators or people. This is a natural form of defence. Some frogs may also 'play dead'. Toads, on the other hand, can inflate themselves with air - which makes them look bigger to possible predators and too big to be eaten!