As its name suggests, it is both big and built for digging. It is one of the largest native frogs in southeastern Australia. With a chunky body, bulging golden eyes, and mottled gray to dark brown skin that blends perfectly with soil and leaf litter, it doesn’t stand out like brightly colored tropical frogs—but its underground lifestyle is what truly makes it fascinating.

Unlike most frogs that live near ponds or streams, the giant burrowing frog spends much of its life hidden underground. Using its strong hind legs, it digs burrows into sandy or loamy soils, where it stays cool and safe during hot summers and dry spells. These burrows become not only its shelter but also its nursery. Males call from underground with a low, deep growl that can carry through the soil, attracting females to the burrow. The pair then produces a foamy nest where the eggs are laid, keeping them moist and protected. When the rains come and flood the burrow, the tadpoles are released into temporary pools and creeks to continue their development.

Another thing that sets the giant burrowing frog apart is its incredible voice. Unlike the sharp croaks of common frogs, its call is a long, guttural “woooop” that seems to come from deep underground, giving the impression that the earth itself is talking. People unfamiliar with the species are often surprised to learn that these strange, echoing sounds are coming from a hidden frog beneath their feet.

While most frogs hop about, the giant burrowing frog is slow and deliberate on land, conserving its energy for digging and calling. Its eyes are unusually large for a burrowing species, giving it excellent night vision when it emerges to forage on insects and small invertebrates.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Australia

2021

Victoria, New South Wales