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| Palawan Stream Frog |
The Palawan Stream Frog, also known as the Culion Frog (Pulchrana moellendorffi), is an endemic amphibian species currently listed as Least Concern due to its presumed large population and wide distribution in Palawan. However, like most species that require forest cover, this frog is increasingly threatened by habitat loss, primarily from agricultural expansion and urban development. It was once common throughout its range, but noticeable declines have been observed in lowland areas, particularly on the eastern side of the mainland where farming is extensive.
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| Palawan Stream Frog |
The Palawan Stream Frog doesn’t just live in pristine forests. It used to be abundant along disturbed rivers in lowland forests and even in low-intensity agricultural areas. Today, however, uncontrolled deforestation in the lowlands and pollution of streams and rivers from agricultural runoff are gradually pushing this species to retreat higher into foothills and mountain slopes, where the majority is sharing space with other endemic amphibians such as the Palawan Fanged Frog, Palawan Litter Frog, and Palawan Rock Frog.
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| Palawan Stream Frog |
The Palawan Stream Frog is well camouflaged, making it difficult to spot during the day. It usually hides inside dense vegetation along rivers and streams or beneath large rocks and roots on the riverbanks. At night, however, it becomes much easier to see, as it is most active along riversides and on the forest floor near water. This species ranges across all major mountain ranges in Palawan and several protected areas, typically up to around 600 meters above sea level. Reports suggest it may occur as high as 800 meters in the Mount Victoria area, though I have not yet encountered it at that elevation. Protecting Palawan’s forests and waterways is essential to ensure that this endemic frog and many other species that share its fragile habitat can continue to thrive.
