White-bellied frogs released into Boranup Forest as part of Perth Zoo critically endangered species program

Environment Minister Reece Whitby has personally had a hand in releasing more than 100 critically endangered frogs into the Boranup Forest.

Reared at Perth Zoo under a specialist breeding program, the white-bellied frogs have a tiny, select habitat in the Capes region.

The zoo’s efforts aim to bolster the existing frog population to guarantee the species continues to thrive despite a plethora of native challenges.

More than 1250 of the inch-long white-bellied frogs have been released this year.

The frogs’ 24sqkm habitat was among areas in the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park protected by firefighters during the December Calgardup bushfire.

“Protecting threatened species like the white-bellied frog is crucial to preserving our unique biodiversity,” Mr Whitby said.

“The white-bellied frog is confined to only a few locations in a very small pocket of the South West, so it is critical that as a Government, we do what we can to protect its habitat and increase the size of its population.

“This is a great example of a positive conservation outcome from working together.”

Frog eggs were carefully collected by Parks and Wildlife service workers between Witchcliffe and Karridale and taken to the zoo for rearing as part of a program which started in 2011 and includes the orange-bellied and sunset frog species.

Local MP Jane Kelsbie said Parks and Wildlife supported the critically endangered species, with care taken for fire management, fencing and feral animal control.