Limnodynastes tasmaniensis (Spotted Grass Frog)

<p>Spotted Grass Frog is one of the most common frogs within its range. It is usually found in association with water, and in dry periods shelters in cracks in the ground, usually under large rocks. Some have a stripe down the centre of their back, but the stripe is missing from the rest. Adult length: 30-47mm. <p>Current conservation status: Common. <p>Distribution: Occupies many types of habitat, widespread below 900 m in ACT. ,<p>Spotted Grass Frog is one of the most common frogs within its range. Occupies many types of habitat, widespread below 900 m in ACT.</p> <p><strong>Current conservation status:</strong> Very common.</p> <p><strong>Family:</strong> Myobatrachidae</p> <p><strong>Appearance: </strong>A relatively large frog in the region, this species is conspicuously blotches in a neat pattern of dark and light markings. Many individuals have a distinctive red or orange stripe down the centre of the back. A line of white granular tissue runs from beneath the eye to above the back leg.</p> <p><strong>Length:&nbsp; </strong>up to 50mm</p> <p><strong>Breeding:</strong> Calls from September to March.</p> <p><strong>Habitat:</strong> Prefers stading water, including roadside ditches, marshes, swamps, lakes and ponds. Areas with considerable flooded vegetation, such as tussocks and sedges, provide ideal habitat. During dry weather they shelter in deep cracks in the clays of the dry wetlands, beneath large logs and in the base of grass tussocks.</p> <p><strong>Distribution: </strong>An abundant species occuring in farmland and lower elevation woodland throughout the region.</p> <p><strong>Biology:</strong> Male frogs call while floating in the water. The egg mass is distinctive, consisting of a small, round, floating, white foamy nest that is usually attached to emergent vegetation.</p> <p><strong>Call</strong>: A conspicuous "uck..uck...uck" that sounds a little bit like a toy machine gun.</p>