Geelong households should install backyard ponds for frogs battling a dinosaur-like extinction level threat, according to an animal welfare group.
Various species of frogs would be “out in full force” around the region after any summer rains, said the Foundation for National Parks and Wildlife’s Susanna Bradshaw.
“Water is incredibly important for Australia’s wildlife, especially our huge variety of frogs,” she said.
“A pond can offer an easy, permanent water source for your local amphibian buddies and will also benefit lots of other native animals, too.
“Australia is home to over 200 species of frogs that are found nowhere else in the world.
“Sadly, Australia also has one of the highest rates of amphibian extinction in the world so anything you can do around Geelong to provide habitat for them will be a big help.
“Australian frogs are facing threats from the devastating chytrid fungus, water pollution, drought, predation from introduced pests and much more.
“Their numbers haven’t plummeted like this since the extinction of the dinosaurs.”
Ms Bradshaw said frogs were “great to have around”.
“They show that you live within a healthy ecosystem, as they’re very sensitive to chemicals and environmental degradation.
“Don’t touch frogs because any sunscreen or insect repellent on your skin can make them sick.”
Ms Bradshaw said tips for making a backyard pond to accommodate frogs were available at backyardbuddies.net.au.
