If you’re fascinated by frogs you will be jumping with joy about the opportunity to go into the field with an experienced amphibian expert to see these creatures in their natural habitat.
The Nuwejaars Wetlands Special Management Area (NWSMA), situated between Bredasdorp and Elim, will host an exciting Frog Adventure led by amphibian expert Sheraine van Wyk of Whale Coast Conservation.
Ross Kettles of the Nuwejaars Wetlands Conservation team says this is the perfect time of the year to hear the sounds of the area’s amphibian residents making their voices heard.
Nuwejaars Wetlands is home to a new subpopulation of critically endangered Micro Frogs discovered in 2021. The Micro Frog is a tiny species about the size of a person’s thumbnail when fully grown.
But, said Kettles, people who embark on the Frog Adventure will not only look for the Micro Frog, but also the Western Cape’s endemic Arum Lily Frog (the species featured on the Nuwejaars Wetlands Special Management Area logo), Cape Sand Frog and Cape River Frog.
“For one evening only, Sheraine will lead you through the wetlands, to help make sense of all the wetlands action. You’ll hear the sounds of our wonderful resident amphibians making their shy appearance.
“Micro Frogs, a critically endangered species, are particularly loud and happy right now. They’re calling to their mates in this short time over August, before they once again hide in the wetland peat soils over summer. It’s spectacular to head into the wetlands and soak up these sights and sounds right now.”
The Frog Adventure kicks off at 17:30 on Friday 18 August at the Black Oystercatcher Wine Farm. The cost is R300 per person and R100 for kids under 12. It includes coffee or tea and rusks.
Call 079 517 9032 or email book@nuwejaars.com for more info. Booking is essential as space is extremely limited.
