Wallum froglet

The wallum froglet is a diminutive, ground-dwelling frog indigenous to the east coast of Australia, ranging from southeast Queensland to Kurnell, New South Wales. It thrives in Wallum swamp habitats. Despite its small size, reaching up to just 15 mm long, it closely resembles the common eastern froglet. It can be identified by its distinctive call and a white stripe running from its throat to the tip of its snout. Its back varies in color from gray to brown, often with a smooth texture and striped pattern, while its belly features a subtle black and white marbled design.

These frogs typically inhabit acidic paperbark swamps within the Wallum region. Male wallum froglets are known for their high-pitched squeaking calls, which they emit year-round, provided there is water nearby. They often call from concealed spots in the grass or even while floating. Breeding mainly occurs in the autumn and winter, in large swamps and temporary ponds near the swamp's edge. The females lay their eggs individually on twigs and leaves in still water. The tadpoles are brown with arched tail fins and can grow up to almost 40 mm. Their development takes about six months, and once they metamorphose, the young frogs measure between 6-11 mm.

Unfortunately, the habitats of wallum froglets are increasingly under threat due to urbanization.