Alpine Frogs a Calling

This is a unique project that looks to promote conservation of Victoria’s high country frogs in two primary ways; 1) To directly contribute to the greater understanding of alpine frog species and their habitat needs and 2), Educate the public and garner support for their long-term conservation and protection. It will focus on frogs around Lake Mountain and Yarra Ranges NP.

Museums Victoria, in support with Lake Mountain Alpine Resort, Parks Victoria and Dr Matt West at the University of Melbourne will:

1. Establish strategic acoustic monitoring sites within Lake Mountain Alpine Resort and Yarra Ranges National Park to document seasonal patterns of habitat use by frogs
2. Provide species occurrence records (backed by acoustic recordings) to the Victorian Biodiversity Atlas
3. Provide professional training in acoustic monitoring and analysis tools to local researchers and scientific staff
4. Develop a community engagement program to promote environmental awareness of Victoria’s high country frogs and their calls
5. Encourage citizen scientists, including high school students, to document frogs in their local areas using the FrogID app.

Results from the study will be used to assist in identifying priority areas for feral herbivore enclosures to allow for natural and assisted restoration of these habitats for frogs and other alpine wildlife. The community level support and grass-roots action is necessary to protect alpine frogs and ensure the conservation of their habitats within parks in the long term.