In 2003, following decades of decline due to Chytrid fungus and in response to an intense wildfire that severely impacted the bogs and fens of the alpine areas in the Australian Capital Territory where this species is found, a captive ‘breed for release’ colony for the critically endangered Northern Corroboree Frog (Pseudophryne pengilleyi) (NCF) was established at Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve (ACT). The NCF is a range-restricted species highly threatened by chytrid fungus which is widespread and an entrenched pathogen throughout the Alpine areas of Australia.
Between 2011 – 2019 over 4000 frogs were released into this species historical range, with follow-up monitoring. Despite the effort and numbers released, success has been limited, with no animals detected in 2019.
A new and innovative approach was needed: the identification of suitable habitats outside the species historical range where assisted colonisation could be trialled.
Candidate assisted colonisation sites were assessed on three key factors: (i) habitat and climatic suitability; (ii) capacity to allow coexistence with chytrid fungus; and (iii) resilience to drought and climate change. This screening process identified a highly suitable candidate site in an area slightly outside the known historical range of this species. Conservation translocations commenced in 2020, and today over 1000 juvenile frogs (1-3 years old) have been released into the new site.
Subsequent monitoring has detected frogs each year, including nesting males with eggs, however, more time is needed before a conclusion regarding the success of the trial can be made. In the meantime, releases and monitoring will continue.