Frogs will be attracted to a boggy area with grasses and don’t necessarily need a large formal pond. They need somewhere to hide and rest as well as a permanent water source for breeding. Make this as predator proof as possible. You could do this with a simple mesh fence and plant around it for camouflage. Make use of natural low-lying areas or depressions to build a pond. The safety of small children is paramount.

Consider locating frog habitat away from bedrooms if calling males may interrupt your sleep.

Suggestions include:

• Rocks and logs for hiding, (don’t need to be very large) so are not vulnerable when calling for mates
• Open water surface with easy quick access to a refuge such as under the logs or rocks.
• Shade producing plants such as Eucalypts or Wattles.
• Edging plants like Poa and Lomandra and Goodenia for protection
• Water plants like Sedges, Rushes and water ribbons which will attract insects for frogs to eat, help oxygenate the water and provide a steppingstone for tadpoles and young frogs to leave the open water.

Things to avoid:

• Pumps can kill tadpoles and eggs
• Deter cats and dogs with edging spikey plants
• Keep the pond free from dense covering to allow for oxygenation
• Avoid pesticide use
• Avoid adding fish or turtles that eat tadpoles

Can frogs help control mosquito populations? Click here to see what the Australian Museum has to say.