An investigation into the suspected illegal relocation of a threatened frog species has put wetlands near Werribee and Caroline Springs in the spotlight, after more than 100 growling grass frogs were allegedly taken from the area and dumped at a reserve on the other side of Melbourne.
The Conservation Regulator is appealing for information after the frogs were discovered at Yalukit William Nature Reserve in Brighton, a site where the species had not previously been recorded.
Authorities believe the frogs were unlawfully captured from wetlands in Melbourne’s west, including in Werribee and Caroline Springs, before being transported across the city.
The investigation began last year after reports of the unexpected frog population were received.
Follow-up surveys confirmed the presence of growling grass frogs, with about a quarter of the animals showing injuries consistent with poor human handling.
Growling grass frogs are listed as vulnerable in Victoria under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988, with populations already under pressure from habitat loss and disease.
Senior forest and wildlife Ooficer Jackson Bull said the illegal capture and movement of threatened species posed serious risks.
“While it’s unlawful in Victoria to take any wildlife from the wild without a permit, the capture and relocation of a threatened species is a more serious offence, due to the potential impact it has on the species survival,” Mr Bull said.
“The removal of breeding adults from a source population of growling grass frogs can have detrimental impacts on that source population.
Mr Bull said relocating frogs could expose them to disease and undermine conservation efforts.
Investigators believe the relocations occurred between October 2024 and January 2025, likely involving several people operating late at night or early in the morning across multiple dates.
Crime Stoppers Victoria chief executive Stella Smith urged anyone with information to come forward.
“If you know anything about these incidents or suspect other wildlife crime, you can tell Crime Stoppers what you know, anonymously,” she said.
Details: 1800 333 000 or crimestoppers.vic.com.au
