Growling Grass Frog
Ranoidea raniformis
Once common along the Merri, now rare and listed as vulnerable. Males call with a distinctive growling 'crawark-crawark' through spring and summer nights. They need permanent water with dense vegetation—the kind of habitat that's disappeared from much of the creek. Hearing one is a gift.
Climate context
Calling begins when night temperatures exceed 12°C, with peak activity at 18–25°C. Calling is more likely after rain.
Seasonal indicator
- Calling during Poorneet (Tadpole season).
When to look
Monthly calling observations in Victoria. Data from iNaturalist.
Where to look
Observations along the Merri Creek corridor (Fawkner to Dights Falls). Data from iNaturalist.