Identifying and protecting frogs

Benefits of frogs on your property.

Frogs are considered indicator species, which means they can provide valuable insights into the overall health of ecosystems and the biodiversity they support.

Healthy frog populations are generally a good indication of a healthy environment.

Frogs are an essential thread in the food web. Frogs eat vast amounts of invertebrates, including houseflies, mosquitos, cockroaches and spiders, and they're a fundamental food source for a wide variety of other wildlife, including birds, mammals and reptiles. Tadpoles fill our creeks and dams, helping keep algae and mosquito larvae under control while they too become food for fish and other wildlife.

Why frogs are at risk

Frog populations are declining around the world for a range of reasons, including habitat loss and disease. Frogs absorb oxygen and other compounds through their skin, making them sensitive to pesticides and herbicides.

Frog are highly sensitive to environmental changes, especially in their aquatic and terrestrial habitats. As amphibians, they depend on both water and land for different life stages, making them vulnerable to a wide range of threats.

Why protecting frogs matters

• Biodiversity conservation: Protecting threatened frog species is essential for maintaining biodiversity. Each species plays a specific role in the ecosystem, and their disappearance can lead to imbalances that can have far-reaching consequences for other flora and fauna.
• Ecosystem health: Healthy frog populations indicate a well-functioning ecosystem. As sensitive indicators, their presence or absence can signal potential environmental problems, allowing us to address them proactively.
• Cultural and aesthetic value: Frogs have cultural significance in many societies, including First Nations. They play a vital role in stories, myths, and artwork. Preserving these creatures ensures that future generations can appreciate and learn from their beauty and importance.

Threatened frog species in NSW

• Booroolong Frog (Litoria booroolongensis) - this remarkable amphibian is native to the eastern highlands of Australia. This elusive frog, known for its distinctive musical call resembling a soft tinkling bell, inhabits cool, moist forested areas near streams and water bodies. With its vibrant green coloration and unique pattern of yellow spots, the Booroolong Frog is a symbol of the region's rich biodiversity. However, it faces significant challenges due to habitat loss and the spread of fungal diseases affecting amphibian populations worldwide. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure the survival of this enchanting species and maintain the delicate ecological balance it contributes to
• Green and Golden Bell Frog (Litoria aurea) - once widespread across eastern Australia, the Green and Golden Bell Frog has experienced a sharp decline due to habitat loss and degradation. Urbanisation, pollution, and invasive species have significantly impacted its survival. Protecting and restoring its wetland habitats are vital to save this beautiful frog from disappearing entirely
• Southern Corroboree Frog (Pseudophryne corroboree) - this vibrant yellow and black frog is an iconic species native to the Snowy Mountains region. Its decline is primarily attributed to the spread of the deadly chytrid fungus, which affects amphibians worldwide. Efforts to breed and reintroduce captive-bred individuals to the wild are underway, emphasizing the importance of conserving its mountain bog habitats
• Giant Burrowing Frog (Heleioporus australiacus) - as the name suggests, the Giant Burrowing Frog is an impressive amphibian known for its burrowing abilities. However, these unique traits have not protected it from the threats of land clearing and habitat destruction. Preserving its native woodland and forest habitats is essential for its continued survival
• Red-Crowned Toadlet (Pseudophryne australis) - this tiny, brightly coloured toadlet is found in the Sydney region and faces numerous threats, including habitat loss, pollution, and disease. Conserving its natural bushland habitats and implementing strict environmental protections are necessary to safeguard its population.

How you can protect frogs

• Habitat preservation: protecting and restoring natural habitats, such as wetlands, forests, and bogs, is critical for the survival of threatened frog species
• Mitigating pollution: reducing pollution in water bodies and surrounding environments helps maintain suitable conditions for frog populations
• Managing invasive species: controlling the spread of invasive plants and animals that can disrupt frog habitats is crucial
• Disease monitoring: monitoring and managing diseases like chytrid fungus can help prevent large-scale population declines
• Community engagement: raising awareness and involving local communities in conservation efforts can make a significant difference in protecting threatened frog species.

How to build and improve frog habitat

• Plant shrubs and groundcover close together in your garden to protect frogs as they feed and move around.
• Build a frog pond and plant some reeds or tussock-forming sedges around the margin.
• Keep fertilisers, herbicides and pesticides away from your pond or other areas where frogs may live.
• Keep your cats indoors, especially at night when most frogs are active.
• Keep cattle away from sections of stream banks and, wherever possible, retain stream-bank vegetation.
• Preserve wetlands and other natural waterways on your property.
• Maintain wildlife corridors that connect areas of drought refuge.
• Fence off a portion of your dam for frogs.
• Retain fallen logs, rocks, native tussock grasses and other non-invasive native plants.