description New Holland Frog Overview
The New Holland Frog (Cyclorana novaehollandiae) is an Australian burrowing frog adapted to arid and semi-arid environments. It can survive prolonged drought by encasing itself in a shed-skin cocoon while aestivating underground, a strategy that significantly reduces water loss during extended dry periods. The species emerges after heavy rainfall to breed in temporary pools and water-filled depressions across its range in Australia.
help New Holland Frog FAQ
How does the New Holland Frog survive long Australian droughts?
Cyclorana novaehollandiae burrows underground and enters aestivation when surface water disappears. It forms a cocoon from layers of shed skin, reducing water loss until soaking rain softens the ground.
What triggers New Holland Frogs to emerge and breed?
Heavy seasonal rain can bring large numbers to temporary pools and flooded roadside areas. Males then call from the water, and tadpoles must develop before these short-lived breeding sites dry out.
Is the New Holland Frog a tree frog or a burrowing frog?
It belongs to the Australian tree-frog family Pelodryadidae but is behaviorally specialized for burrowing. Its powerful hind limbs and shovel-like inner metatarsal tubercles help it dig backward into soil.
Where in Australia can the New Holland Frog be found?
The species occurs across inland and northern eastern Australia, particularly in Queensland and parts of New South Wales and the Northern Territory. It favors floodplains, grasslands, and temporary waters in arid or seasonally dry country.
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