Reptiles & Frogs

25 reptile species have been identified from the forest in the two published surveys that I have been able to access but this is not a comprehensive number as I personally have seen at least three other species (2 snakes and tortoises) not included.

The most common reptiles that you are likely to come across in the forest are goannas. There are two types, the Lace Monitor and the Sand or Gould’s goanna. They are similar looking, the Sand Goanna has a prominent black stripe running through the eyeline and the Lace Monitor is more likely to take to a tree when they become aware of you. They can be seen quite regularly on the forest trails in summer, particularly the Western Boundary Trail. They can grow to over 5 ft, the largest I have come across was 5 1/2 ft in the mallee on the far western edge of the forest. Potentially aggressive when surprised and feeling threatened.

Bearded dragons, also on fire trails and tortoises in waterholes in summer are the next most common reptiles encountered. Snakes are present, some venomous, but uncommonly seen.

8 frog species are identified in the two published papers but this is also an underestimation. When conditions are wet and low lying areas fill with water, frog populations boom and the forest rings loud with their calls. They can be remarkably aware of human presence and take to water readily making them difficult to observe.