They might be small and largely unseen but frogs play a vital role in the Australian ecosystem. Frogs (and tadpoles) eat large amounts of invertebrates which helps keep pest species in check, and are a food source for a wide variety of birds, reptiles and mammals. They’re the glue that keeps our ecosystem in tact but worryingly, scientists believe that at least eight species are at risk of becoming extinct within the next 20 years. More than 43 are listed as vulnerable; four may already be gone. 

Climate change, habitat loss, invasive species and a fungal disease called chytridiomycosis are the main factors affecting frog populations across Australia. This year the east coast saw a massive die back of frogs – so large scale that many gardeners were reporting major losses in their backyards despite not even being aware they had frogs in their gardens in the first place.

So what can we do to help?

Here at the nursery we have installed a brand new frog pond for our amphibian friends. And it’s not just for the frogs – birds, lizards, water dragons, insects, the odd snake and a possum or two all visit for a drink, a bath and a feed. It’s a great place to cool down (or warm up!) and we love being able to provide a habitat for all sorts of creatures right in the middle of suburbia. 

The great news is that you can create a frog haven in your own backyard too – no special skills required! Here at the nursery we have a fantastic selection of water plants ready to go that suit both pre-fabricated ponds and bog gardens. Come and check out our pond for inspiration and start planing your own today.