The Parks and Wildlife Commission NT (PWCNT) is inviting nature lovers to meet the frogs of the desert at Simpsons Gap next month.

PWCNT community engagement officer, Susie Pendle, said recent rain in Central Australia has encouraged some of the Territory’s fascinating and rarely seen frogs to emerge.

“This activity is for frog spotters of all ages and will be held on the 6th and 13th of February at Simpsons Gap,” Ms Pendle said.

“Roe Creek recently filled and with residual fresh water puddles along the creek, and warm evenings, the chorus of frog calls at night is deafening.

“Frogs on Friday follows last November’s hugely popular frog spotting event, and is a great opportunity for those who either missed out last time, or enjoyed the experience so much, they want to see what other frogs they might find.

“Many people might not know that there are frogs in the desert but some amazing amphibian species live here including the unique Centralian tree frog (Litoria gilleni) and Spencers burrowing frog (Platyplectrum spenceri).

“The Spencers burrowing frog is one of the many burrowing frog species found in the desert, and as their name suggests, they remain underground in dry river beds for most of the year.

“Following rain or creek flow, burrowing frogs emerge on the surface to feed and breed, and this time of year, the Spencers burrowing frog is a real treat to see, although they can be well camouflaged on the water’s edge.”  

The frog spotting nights starts with a slideshow designed to teach people about the local species and to help identify the different frogs that people will hopefully see during the activity.

“Simpsons Gap has an abundance of amazing wildlife, so you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of other native animals, including dingoes (Canis lupus dingo), black-footed rock wallabies (Petrogale lateralis) or even a Stimsons Python (Antaresia stimsoni) as frogs can be quite a nice meal for a snake,” Ms Pendle said.

“This activity is for frog spotters of all ages. All you’ll need is a torch, insect repellent and to wear study and comfortable shoes, as the spotlight walk will take place over unsteady terrain.

“We also suggest you bring along a chair or rug to sit on for comfort during the presentation.”

Bookings are essential so please contact Susie Pendle on 89518247 or email susie.pendle@nt.gov.au to secure a spot early on these popular activities.

Media Note – for more information contact Susie Pendle on 89518247

Issued: 2pm Wednesday, 21 January 2015