It’s great news for frogs in the Gippsland Lakes with researchers recording their first metamorph (young) Green and Golden Bell Frog and catching Growling Grass Frogs “in the act” of breeding in newly established ‘frog bog’ wetlands in the Lower Avon and Perry River areas.   

The team from Greening Australia led by Martin Potts made the discovery as part of ongoing monitoring at the ‘frog bog’ wetlands which were constructed in 2022. A series of 15 specifically designed bogs, funded by the Love Our Lakes program, were installed on private property connecting identified high priority wetlands in the landscape.   

In addition, recent surveying in the Macleod Morass detected the presence of Green and Golden Bell frogs after a few quite years, which led to the creation of a new ‘frog bog’ wetland at the site. Local contractors have recently finished planting at this new frog home.  

“To see breeding events for both endangered frog species within two years is incredibly exciting! This project was made possible by the ongoing crucial monitoring of these threatened species in the Lakes” said Bec Hemming, CEO of East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority. 

“These two endangered frog species are key ecological indicators for the health of the Gippsland Lakes Ramsar site and we are delighted that this round of funding has built on previous research and on ground works to deliver these stunning results.”  

“The frog bogs at both Macleod Morass and Lake Wellington are essential for future proofing the Lakes environment, giving wildlife room to move providing essential freshwater refuge areas in drier times.”  

Green and Golden Bell Frogs and Growling Grass Frogs are Ramsar listed threatened species and just two of the special animals noted as being important to the Gippsland Lakes Ramsar site – the program which recognises its international importance.  

This project is part of a $248 million investment by the Victorian Government to improve the health of waterways and catchments. Of this, $7.5 million is being provided to improve the health of Gippsland Lakes over three years (2021-2024), through support to the Gippsland Lakes Coordinating Committee and for the delivery of on-ground works and community engagement.