Corroboree frog facts for kids

The corroboree frog is a small, brightly colored frog found in Australia. These unique frogs are known for their striking yellow and black stripes. They are named "corroboree" because their patterns look like the traditional body paint used in Indigenous Australian ceremonies called corroborees.

There are two main types, or species, of corroboree frog:

• Southern corroboree frog, Pseudophryne corroboree
• Northern corroboree frog, Pseudophryne pengilleyi

Both species are very rare and face serious threats.

What Do Corroboree Frogs Look Like?

Corroboree frogs are quite small. They usually grow to be about 2.5 to 3.5 centimeters long. That's about the size of your thumb! Their skin is smooth and shiny. The most amazing thing about them is their bold pattern. They have bright yellow or golden stripes that stand out against a black background. This pattern is unique to each frog, like a fingerprint.

Scientists believe these bright colors act as a warning. They tell predators, "Stay away! I might be poisonous!" Corroboree frogs can produce a mild toxin from their skin. This toxin can make predators feel sick if they try to eat the frog.

Where Do They Live?

Corroboree frogs live in specific, cool, and damp places. They are found in the high mountain areas of southeastern Australia. The Southern corroboree frog lives in the Brindabella Range and Fiery Range of the Australian Capital Territory and New South Wales. The Northern corroboree frog lives a bit further north, in the Kosciusko National Park area of New South Wales.

These frogs prefer to live in subalpine woodlands, sphagnum moss bogs, and wet heaths. They need places with plenty of moisture and cool temperatures. They often hide under logs, rocks, or in thick moss.

What Do They Eat?

Corroboree frogs are carnivores, which means they eat other small creatures. Their diet mainly consists of tiny insects and other small invertebrates. They especially like to eat ants, mites, and small beetles. They use their sticky tongues to catch their prey.

Life Cycle of a Corroboree Frog

The life cycle of a corroboree frog is fascinating. It starts with eggs, then tadpoles, and finally, adult frogs.

Eggs and Tadpoles

Female corroboree frogs lay their eggs on land, usually in moss or under leaf litter. They choose damp spots near temporary pools of water. This usually happens in late summer or early autumn. The male frog guards the eggs until they are ready to hatch.

The eggs can stay in their jelly-like clumps for several months. They wait for rain or melting snow to flood their nesting site. Once flooded, the tadpoles hatch and swim into the water. Corroboree frog tadpoles are black and can take a long time to develop. They might stay as tadpoles for six to eight months, sometimes even longer.

Becoming an Adult Frog

After growing in the water, the tadpoles change into small froglets. This process is called metamorphosis. The froglets then leave the water and begin their lives on land. They will grow into adult frogs over the next few years. Corroboree frogs can live for about 5 to 9 years in the wild.

Why Are They Endangered?

Both species of corroboree frog are critically endangered. This means they are at a very high risk of becoming extinct in the wild. Several things have caused their numbers to drop dramatically.

Chytrid Fungus

One of the biggest threats is a deadly disease called chytridiomycosis. This disease is caused by a fungus called Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, or chytrid fungus. The fungus attacks the frog's skin, making it hard for them to breathe and absorb water. It has wiped out many frog populations around the world.

Habitat Loss and Climate Change

Their habitat is also shrinking due to human activities and climate change. Bushfires can destroy their homes. Changes in rainfall patterns and temperatures also affect their breeding sites. Draining of wetlands and damage to their sensitive mossy habitats also contribute to their decline.

Conservation Efforts

Many people are working hard to save the corroboree frog. Conservation programs are trying to protect these special creatures.

Breeding Programs

Zoos and wildlife parks have started special breeding programs. They collect some frogs and eggs from the wild and breed them in safe, controlled environments. This helps increase their numbers. Once the frogs are old enough, they are released back into their natural habitats. This is a very important way to help them survive.

Habitat Protection

Efforts are also being made to protect and restore their natural habitats. This includes managing bushfires, controlling invasive species, and ensuring their breeding sites remain healthy. Scientists are also researching ways to fight the chytrid fungus.

By learning about these amazing frogs and supporting conservation efforts, we can all help ensure the corroboree frog continues to thrive in Australia's mountains.

Images for kids

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  Southern corroboree frog in a breeding facility at Taronga Zoo