STONY-CREEK FROG

The Stony-creek frog is a small to medium-sized frog. It typically measures around 4 to 6 centimetres in length. Its skin is smooth and often exhibits a variety of colours, ranging from olive green to brown, sometimes with a hint of yellow or orange. This camouflage helps it blend seamlessly into its natural habitat, which is crucial for avoiding predators. The frog’s underbelly is usually a lighter shade, providing a stark contrast to its darker upper body.

This amphibian is commonly found in the eastern parts of Australia, particularly in Queensland and northern New South Wales. It thrives in environments close to streams, creeks, and other water bodies, often preferring rocky areas where it can hide and hunt. The Stony-creek frog is quite adaptable, managing to live in both rainforests and more open woodland areas.

The Stony-creek frog is an insectivore, primarily feasting on a diet of insects and other small invertebrates. Its diet includes flies, beetles, and moths, which it captures with its quick, sticky tongue.

Breeding occurs mainly during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn. The males call out to attract females with a distinctive, repetitive croaking sound. Once a female is attracted, she will lay eggs in water. The eggs hatch into tadpoles, which then undergo metamorphosis to become juvenile frogs. This transformation is a remarkable process, showcasing nature’s incredible adaptability.

The Stony-creek frog can live for several years, though exact lifespan data is limited. Factors such as predation and environmental conditions play a significant role in their longevity.

Currently, the Stony-creek frog is not considered endangered and is listed as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, like many amphibians, it faces threats from habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change. Conservation efforts focus on protecting their natural habitats and monitoring populations for any signs of decline.

The call of the Stony-creek frog is a series of short, repetitive croaks. During the breeding season, these calls can be heard echoing through their habitats, creating a lively symphony of amphibian communication.