What kind of frog is the turtle frog?

Turtle frogs live in dry forest areas and sandy regions of Western Australia.

They spend most of their time underground.

Using their powerful forelimbs, they dig burrows in the soil, creating tunnels where they live.

This is thought to be an adaptation for protection from dryness and predators, and to access their primary food source: termites.

Why are they called "turtle frogs"?

Turtle frogs are named for their resemblance to turtles due to their stout body shape, tough skin, and short limbs.

Unlike other frogs, they are not very good at jumping and move by crawling along the ground.

This movement style also evokes images of turtles.

What do turtle frogs eat?

Turtle frogs primarily feed on termites.

They search for termite nests within their underground tunnels, using their large mouths to suction up the termites.

How do turtle frogs raise their young?

Turtle frogs are known for their unique and rare reproductive method called gastric-brooding.

The female lays about 20-40 eggs at a time, but instead of laying them in water, she swallows them and broods them in her stomach.

The tadpoles develop inside the mother's stomach for approximately 6 weeks, during which time the mother does not eat.

Once the tadpoles metamorphose into small froglets, the mother regurgitates them.

This amazing reproductive strategy allows turtle frogs to ensure the survival of their offspring in arid environments.

Are turtle frogs endangered?

Turtle frogs are facing population decline due to habitat loss, pollution, and over-collection for the pet trade.

They are listed as Near Threatened (NT) on the IUCN Red List.

Their habitat in the arid regions of Western Australia is being destroyed by agriculture and urban development.

Water pollution from pesticide use also poses a threat to their survival.

Protecting their habitat is crucial for the conservation of turtle frogs.