Peppered Tree Frog ()

The Peppered Tree Frog
Source: http://frogsaustralia.net.au/images/site/millsap/litoria_piperata.jpg

This very small frog measures up to 30 millimeters, (1.2 inches), in length and can range from an olive green color to a gray and have small green to dark brown spots on its face.  The frog's underside is a  lighter cream color.  Like other tree frogs the peppered tree frog has large fingertips and toetips to help it climb.

We don't know much about their habitat but in 1973 a group of about 20 frogs was observed in a fallen tree limb near a stream.  Nothing is known about their mating habits; no mating call has ever been heard from a male frog nor do we know where they lay their eggs.  We believe that they mate after heavy rain during the warm season.

The peppered tree frog has actually not been seen in it's natural habitat since the 1970's.  It was last observed between 800 to 1000 m, (2625 to 3280 feet), in altitude in an easterly flowing stream on the New England Tablelands.  Some reasons for its decline in population are the use of herbicides and pesticides as well as the change in its habitat due to the clearing of fallen trees and rocks close to streams that was used as shelter by these frogs. 

Further Information on the Peppered Tree Frog:

Bibliography:

http://threatenedspecies.environment.nsw.gov.au/tsprofile/profile.aspx?id=10490
http://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/npws.nsf/Content/Peppered+frog+vulnerable+species+listings