Meet the Turtle Frog – Western Australia’s Burrowing Wonder
The turtle frog (Myobatrachus gouldii) is one of Western Australia’s most unique amphibians. Endemic to the Perth region, this small, chubby frog resembles a turtle without a shell and has captured the hearts of scientists and nature lovers alike.
Unlike most frogs, turtle frogs dig using their forelimbs, a rare trait among burrowing amphibians. Their appearance—tiny eyes, stout limbs, and a round face—makes them instantly memorable.
Evolutionary Oddballs in a Biodiversity Hotspot
Turtle frogs are a monotypic species, meaning they are the only known member of their genus. They diverged from their closest relatives over 10 million years ago, during the Miocene epoch. This ancient evolution has led to some fascinating adaptations.
These frogs are native to the Banksia Woodlands in southwestern Australia—recognized as a global biodiversity hotspot. Over 80% of the region’s frog species are found nowhere else in the world.
Built for Life Underground
Unlike typical frogs that hop and leap, turtle frogs waddle and dig. Their strong, muscular forearms act like natural bulldozers, allowing them to tunnel headfirst into the sandy terrain.
Most burrowing frogs dig backwards with their hind legs. But turtle frogs break the mold, relying on shoulder strength and upper-body power—a true amphibian athlete in the world of sand.
Unique Reproduction: No Tadpoles Needed
The turtle frog’s life cycle is also unusual. While most frogs undergo a tadpole stage, turtle frogs skip metamorphosis entirely. They lay eggs deep underground, and the young hatch as fully developed froglets.
Mating begins after a summer storm when males call from their burrows, producing creaky, floorboard-like sounds. If a female responds, the pair digs together down to about 1.5 meters, where they remain for several months. The female then lays between 5 to 50 eggs in moist sand.
This reproductive adaptation helps the species survive in dry environments where standing water is scarce.
Conservation Concerns: Fire, Urban Growth, and Climate Change
As climate change, urban expansion, and bushfires intensify across Western Australia, turtle frogs face increasing threats. They rely on undisturbed habitats within the Banksia Woodlands, especially areas unburnt for extended periods.
Conserving these habitats is vital to ensuring the long-term survival of this unique species.
How You Can Help: Record Frog Calls with the FrogID App
You don’t need to be a scientist to support turtle frog conservation. Through citizen science, anyone can contribute by downloading the FrogID app. When you’re out bushwalking, simply record frog calls you hear.
These recordings help researchers:
- Monitor turtle frog populations
- Understand their habitat preferences
- Advocate for stronger amphibian protection measures
Final Thoughts: Protecting a Digging Specialist
Turtle frogs are a symbol of evolutionary innovation and resilience. Their forelimb digging, direct development, and underground lifestyle set them apart from all other frogs.
By supporting research and using tools like the FrogID app, we can help ensure this rare, endemic burrower continues to thrive beneath the sands of Western Australia.