rspca

Unfrog-ettable: rise in amphibian patients

Animals Rescue Wildlife Posted Nov 26, 2021
As the rain starts to pour and the weather becomes hot and sticky, it is the perfect season for frogs to come out and play, but they are also more susceptible to get in harms way.

As the rain starts to pour and the weather becomes hot and sticky, it is the perfect season for frogs to come out and play, but they are also more susceptible to get in harms way.

Tusked frogs are a medium sized species of frog that reach up to 5cm in body length. Male tusked frogs have a very large head. This type of frog is native to eastern Australia from Eungella National Park, Queensland south to Ourimbah, New South Wales. Tusked frogs are declining in SEQ and are an uncommon patient at RSPCA.

Two Tusked frogs have been recent patients at the RSPCA Wildlife Hospital. It is quite rare to see Tusked frogs, especially in RSPCA care as they can often be mistaken for toads due to their unusual appearance. One of the little frogs was found in a pool and appeared to be injured with a head tilt. We’re pleased to say this little one recovered well following treatment and was released, back to swimming in a pond instead of a pool.

We’ve also seen a higher number of green tree frogs coming into the Hospital for treatment. Dr Tim Portas said, “One of the frogs had an injury to its hind leg after being hit by a car. It underwent anaesthesia and surgery to repair an extensive skin laceration and is recovering well.”

Amphibians require special care due to their unique anatomy and physiology which can make surgery more challenging but our Wildlife Vets are always up to the challenge to help!

Remember to always check your bathrooms, backyard and be cautious on the roads, in case a froggy friend may be injured and in need of help.

Spotted a sick or injured animal? Contact our 24/7 Animal Emergency Hotline on 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625).

Love frogs? Read more on a cool surgery our vets performed earlier on a tiny frog here.


Sophie Oxford
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