This project is integral to the Winton Wetlands Restoration and Monitoring Plan, which seeks to restore ecosystem function by increasing the diversity of native fauna. It’s hoped that the reintroduction of the Growling Grass Frog, an ecologically significant species, will help improve both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems by reintroducing a key predator and prey species.

Dr. Lisa Farnsworth, Winton Wetlands restoration manager, welcomed Biosis’ support, noting our expertise in ecosystem restoration:

“We feel they’re people who really know what they’re talking about when it comes to environmental restoration, so we feel particularly honoured that they want to help support this important work,” Dr. Farnsworth said.

Matt Looby, our Wangaratta-based General Manager - Business and Technical Development, emphasised the significance of the project:

“The Growling Grass Frog reintroduction program at Winton Wetlands has provided us with a unique opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to wildlife conservation and to support the continued restoration of the wetlands. We see this program as a fantastic step towards returning Growling Grass Frogs back to the wetlands of north-east Victoria where they once thrived.”

Currently, Winton Wetlands hosts around 30 Growling Grass Frogs in custom-built outdoor breeding enclosures. These frogs, relocated from a Coliban Water facility near Bendigo last year, are being closely monitored through their winter brumation period ahead of the spring breeding season. Glenis the Growler (pictured below) is one of those frogs.

We are proud to support this program and the fantastic work the Winton wetlands are doing in conservation.

To find out more about the Growling Grass Frog reintroduction efforst at Winton Wetlands visit www.wintonwetlands.org.au/growling-grass-frogs/the-reintroduction-of-growling-grass-frogs-to-winton-wetlands