Common Name: Northern Snapping Frog, Giant Frog, Giant Burrowing Frog, Giant Ground Frog
Scientific Name: Cyclorana australis
Family: Hylidae – Tree Frog family
Location: Australia – Queensland, Northern Territory, and Western Australia
Size: 4.0 inches (10.3 cm)
The Northern Snapping Frog is a fairly large, ground dwelling species of frog even though its part of the tree frog family. I wouldn’t describe the species as giant like some of its names do. During the dry season, they burrow down in the ground to keep cool and moist. Also, they form a cocoon around their body to keep themselves moist.
The mating season for the Northern Snapping Frog lasts from December to February during the wet season. The male frogs call from temporary pools created by the rain. Once the female frog arrives, the male frog grasps her from behind in amplexus. Then, she lays her eggs and the male frog fertilizes them. The female frog lays up to 7000 eggs. After mating, the parents leave the eggs and provide no further care for their offspring. From being laid, the offspring take between 30 to 50 days to complete their metamorphosis.
The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List assesses the Northern Snapping Frog as Least Concern for Extinction. They have a wide range and a presumed large population. There are currently no threats to the species.