The growling grass frog’s call is several short grunts followed by a long, deep growl that lasts for about a second.
Melbourne Water is asking Brimbank residents to record calls, including those of the emerald green growling grass frog, using a new app launched just in time for its 15th Frog Census.
Melbourne Water frog expert and Waterwatch co-ordinator Richard Akers said the census was conducted each year to help with conservation efforts. Mr Akers said that in Brimbank, 10 of 16 frog species found in Melbourne had previously been recorded.
“We are seeing some species – like the eastern common froglet and spotted marsh frog – bouncing back after the millennium drought, while whistling tree frogs seem to be recovering more slowly in Brimbank,” he said.
Brimbank has local populations of the endangered growling grass frog, which can be found along the Maribyrnong River, Jacksons Creek, Taylors Creek and Kororoit Creek.
But Melbourne Water has not been sent a recording of a “call” from them for six years.
Mr Akers is urging residents to download the app, visit their park or local waterway and keep an ear out.
“Every record helps improve conservation efforts,” he said.
To download the app, visit melbournewater.com.au/frogcensus or call 131 722.
