Pelodryadidae – Australian treefrogs

Inhabiting an eclectic range of environments, from cool, moist urban spaces like laundries, letterboxes, and toilets to natural habitats around waterholes and streams, these endearing frogs have carved a niche for themselves alongside humans. They are known for their adaptability and are often found coexisting harmoniously with human populations. Their unassuming needs and gentle disposition have even made them sought-after as pets, with some believing that these frogs help control populations of mice and cockroaches.

These frogs are predominantly nocturnal creatures, preferring to emerge after dark when artificial lights illuminate their surroundings. These well-lit areas serve as a magnet for a variety of bugs and insects, which form the primary component of their diet. Their diet includes insects and spiders, and their role in regulating insect populations can be valuable in both urban and natural settings.

Despite their prevalence and adaptability, frogs in Australia face significant challenges to their populations. While these amphibians are protected by law across the country, their numbers have steadily declined in recent years, primarily due to their pet popularity. The demand for these charming frogs in the pet trade has led to habitat disturbance and collection from the wild, which can disrupt local ecosystems.

They are a part of Australia’s rich biodiversity and contribute to pest control, making them valuable members of their ecosystems. Efforts to protect their habitats and discourage the collection of wild frogs for the pet trade are essential to ensure their continued presence and the balance of urban and natural environments.