Litoria sibilus

Conservation Status

Calling Period

Description

Until early 2024, this species was considered part of the widely distributed Litoria ewingii, however research led by the Australian Museum and using FrogID recordings, revealed that Litoria sibilus, and Litoria calliscelis, from mainland South Australia, were distinct species.

A medium-sized species of frog reaching up to 4.3 cm in body length. It has a silvery-grey to copper back, with a wide, darker bifurcated stripe along the middle that starts between the eyes. There is a black or dark brown stripe from the tip of the snout to past the arm. There is often a white stripe from below the eye to the end of the upper lip. The belly is white, and the male often has a darker throat. The pupil is horizontal, and the iris is gold. The backs of the thighs are typically orange-pink and patterned with dark spots or blotches. The groin region is usually plain and unpatterned. Fingers are unwebbed and toes are moderate-extensively webbed, both with discs wider than the digits.

Breeding Biology

Breeding biology poorly known but presumably the eggs are laid in clusters that stick to vegetation under the surface of the water in temporary or permanent ponds, dams, and stream pools. Has been recorded calling between January–November, with a peak between March–May.

Similar Species

Litoria sibilus is similar in appearance to Litoria ewingii and Litoria calliscelis but can be identified based on distribution.