URGENT UPDATE: The growling grass frog has made a remarkable comeback to a Merri Creek swamp following a groundbreaking habitat restoration trial by Melbourne Water. This development marks a significant milestone, as it is the first resurgence of the frog population in this wetland in 25 years.
The five-month trial, which concluded recently, successfully recreated the growler’s natural habitat, prompting an influx of these unique frogs. Dr. Geoffrey Heard, an ecologist from Australian National University, hailed the return as “brilliant,” underscoring the importance of this event for local biodiversity.
The restoration initiative was funded by the Victorian government’s Melbourne Strategic Assessment (MSA) program, which is dedicated to protecting native species. Dr. Zoe Squires, the MSA growling grass frog program coordinator, reported seeing hundreds of growlers actively foraging in their revitalized habitat. “The ecosystem has come alive and now supports a wide range of additional species,” she noted.
In an astonishing finding, Melbourne Water revealed that more than 160 growlers were detected over a single night at the swamp, although the exact location remains confidential to ensure the frogs’ safety. The restoration involved introducing 10 million litres of water between October 2024 and March 2025, re-establishing crucial vegetation for frog breeding.
Additionally, large woody weeds were removed to enhance sunlight exposure for the frogs, further supporting their growth. Freshwater ecologist Jane Petch expressed her amazement at the rapid migration of the growlers, stating, “It was thrilling to see how quickly the growlers have moved in and made the most of their new home.”
Looking ahead, Melbourne Water plans to manage around 90 dedicated growler habitats through the MSA program. Dr. Heard emphasized that active management is essential for the long-term survival of growling grass frog populations, which have been severely impacted by urbanization, disease, and drought over the years.
Historically, growling grass frogs were once widespread throughout southeastern Australia, but their numbers have dwindled drastically. Known for their distinctive growl-like calls, these frogs are now a symbol of successful conservation efforts. If you encounter the call of a growler, consider recording it using the Melbourne Water Frog Census app, which will be reviewed by an ecologist.
This exciting development is not just a win for the growling grass frog but also a vital step toward restoring ecological balance in the region. As the swamp thrives, local communities and conservationists alike are encouraged to monitor these changes and participate in ongoing efforts to protect this unique species. The resurgence of the growler is a powerful reminder of the impact of dedicated conservation work.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
