Did you know there are three types of frogs in The Coromandel? Two are native, and one is an introduced species. The frog you often see in the garden is likely the green and golden bell frog, a species introduced from Australia. These frogs, with their green or yellow bodies and gold or bronze patches, are now common across the North Island. Bell frogs are the largest in New Zealand, growing up to 10 cm long with a loud call. Females can lay between three and ten thousand eggs, which hatch into tadpoles in about two days and become frogs within two months.
Rare Archey’s Frog Discovery at Driving Creek
Our native frogs are very different; they belong to an ancient group that has remained unchanged for 70 million years. These small, silent, and cryptic frogs include Archey’s frog, our smallest and rarest, growing up to 3.7 cm long. Archey’s frogs, typically found in damp forests 400 meters above sea level, were recently discovered on Driving Creek land—a thrilling find as they are a threatened species and extremely hard to spot!
Hochstetter’s Frog Thriving at Driving Creek
We also have Hochstetter's frogs at Driving Creek. These semi-aquatic, nocturnal natives are brown-green to brown-red with warty skin and dark bands. Much smaller than bell frogs, adults are less than 5 cm long. Unlike bell frogs, Hochstetter's frogs don't croak and skip the aquatic tadpole stage. They lay only about 20 eggs per season, and it takes 3-4 years for the froglets to reach full adult size. Hochstetter’s frogs are more frequently seen at Driving Creek, as they are slightly larger and have consistent habitat preferences.
Protecting Our Native Frogs
We are fortunate to have such remarkable creatures here on the property. To protect these rare native frogs, we actively engage in extensive trapping work to reduce the presence of introduced predators, which are a key threat to their survival. By enhancing predator control at key sites and restoring stream habitats, we strive to create a safer environment where these native frogs can thrive.
