General News
17 November, 2024
Frogs need new abode
FROG conservation in Far North Queensland is under threat with Queensland’s only dedicated rehabilitation facility caught up in the region’s rental crisis.
Award-winning conservation group Frog Safe, known as The Frog Hospital, is urgently seeking new operational facilities to continue its life-saving work caring for sick and injured frogs across the Wet Tropics region before summer hits.
As an essential part of frog conservation efforts, the hospital cares for frogs from across Cairns, the Tablelands, Cooktown and other parts of Queensland, and plays an advisory role for frog rescue services across Australia and overseas.
With frog numbers in the Far North in serious decline, Frog Safe founder Deborah Pergolotti said if the organisation couldn’t find a suitable property soon they may be forced to leave the region, with no organisation to care for FNQ’s frogs.
“Since 1997 Wet Tropics frog numbers in Cairns have declined by 95 per cent,” Ms Pergolotti said.
“If we’re not in Far North Queensland anymore we don’t know who would take over dealing with all those complicated frog cases,” she said.
“We don’t want to leave the region, but unless we can find somewhere we can afford, we may have to look at that as a possibility.”
Frogs are an essential part of the Wet Tropics ecosystem, controlling insect populations and supporting biodiversity.
The group has had to move seven times since the rental crisis started. However, with limited time to secure a new property, the future of this critical operation is now at risk.
Ms Pergolotti said to continue its vital work, the Frog Hospital was seeking a new facility that met specific requirements for the health and safety of the animals.
“Ideally, it would be great to be back on rainforest acreage because then we are in a frog’s environment,” she said.
“Frogs are quite sensitive so if someone would like to have a conversation with us about the environmental aspects we would be quite happy to have that conversation.”
With a new facility, the Frog Hospital aims to expand its work by establishing in-situ breeding programs, offering educational tours, and conducting workshops to engage the public in conservation efforts.
“We’re calling on corporate organisations, benefactors or anyone passionate about conservation to help us secure a new facility,” Ms Pergolotti said.
“With the right support, we can expand our efforts and keep protecting these vital animals.”
To offer a suitable property contact the group on 07 4006 3784 or visit the Frog Hospital Supporters page on Facebook. For donations or partnership inquiries, contact Frog Safe through their website or Facebook page.
