The newly discovered Eungella Whirring Treefrog raises excitement, but also new concerns over its conservation

From left: Eungella Whirring Treefrog; Atherton Tablelands Whirring Treefrog; Southern Whirring Treefrog)

Previously thought to be part of the same species - the Southern Whirring Treefrog - a new study has shown that there are in fact 3 seperate species:

1. Eungella Whirring Treefrog Litoria eungellensis)
2. Atherton Tablelands Treefrog (Litoria corbeni)
3. Southern Whirring Treefrog (Litoria revelata)

What do we know so far about the Eungella Whirring Treefrog?

• The frog inhabits only 20 square kilometres of the Eungella range, and above 900m in elevation
• The Eungella and Atherton Tablelands Whirring Treefrogs have been evolving separately for at least 1.5 million years
• It needs cool, moist and high altitude environments, making the frog highly susceptible to climate change

Scientists have recommended this new species be classified as "critically endangered", given its small occupied area and risk from global warming.

What we can do to protect this new species?

1. The Eungella Whirring Treefrog is at serious threat from climate change. Drier habitats and warming temperatures are likely to push the frogs ability to survive. Rapid and deep cuts to climate pollution, like coal and gas, is needed to stop climate change getting worse and preventing the extinction of the Eungella Whirring Treefrog and countless other species.
2. There are plans for the Capricornia Energy Hub pumped-hydro dam project on the other side of the Eungella range. This project is still developing its draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), which must include endangered species that may be on or impacted by the project, and how the development will put in plans to protect these species. (Note: While the Eungella Whirring Treefrog is not officially classified as endangered yet, the precautionary principle should apply in situations like this)
3. Once the draft EIS is complete, it will be sent out for public and community consultation.

We have reached out to Capricornia Energy Hub asking how this recent discovery of a new, likely-endangered species will impact their project plans, the need to research what the impact will be on the Eungella Whirring Treefrog and for this to be included in the draft EIS for public review. We are awaiting a response.

Taking Action

• Record frog sightings and calls with FrogID

• Contact your local MP, calling for more urgent climate action and plans to rapidly reduce emissions, plus greater protections and resources to protect endangered species.

• Have your say on developments which could impact endangered species and our environment. We'll try to send you these opportunities as soon as they come!