"Hi,
I'm fortunate to have discovered three species of frogs in my garden though I couldn't tell you exactly what species they are.
My question is, do some frogs let their egg(s) grow on the outside of their mouth and keep the `hatchlings' inside the mouth for protection? I have found a medium sized frog with what looks like a round egg attached to it's lip. The frog appears to be a ground frog - gives out a `creeek' sound.
Do you have any information on how to attract/maintain local frogs in the garden? E.g. food sources, frog friendly plants etc.
Cheers,
Tanya.
My Reply:
Dear Tanya,
None of the frogs found in Western Australia raise their eggs in their mouth. You are correct in thinking this though, as the Gastric Brooding Frog (Rheobatrachus) in the Eastern States raises its young in its mouth!! Unfortunately, it is now thought extinct. Unfortunately, the egg you describe could be a tumor of some sort caused by chemicals or pesticides. This is an increasing problem in the city due to heavy metals, use of pesticides such as Roundup and atmospheric pollution such as acid rain. Mutations in frogs are extremely common in some parts of America and are an increasing cause for concern. I have personally found frogs with deformed limbs at some Perth wetlands, although this is unusual in Perth. Anyway, that's my guess for what you observed, especially considering that the lump was "attached to its lip".
As for your frog garden question, generally, the important things are lots of ground cover, no cats, wood chips, logs and rocks as well as ground covering native plants. This will provide cover for the frogs. A pond or damp area is very good for attracting frogs as long as the sides aren't too steep and there is lots of vegetation surrounding the pond, that the frogs can hide in. Generally, native plants are best and will attract birds as well. Any native grevilleas are good. Tree frogs will be happy to find some nice branches to climb on.
Regards,
Rob.