“On the intelligence that we have at this point in time, we don’t believe we have an organised black market.”
Mr Christensen said the change was in its infancy but there multiple investigations into others illegally taking native frogs were already under way.
“We’re seeing people try to traffic green tree frogs, grey tree frogs and false tree frog,” he said.
“This is why we’re hoping to jump on it at an early stage and stomp out the opportunistic side of it.”
Mr Christensen said social media, online platforms, such as Gumtree, and pet stores were being monitored.
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“The pet stores have contacted us about suspicious behaviour and we’re acting on the information we’re being given.”
Mr Christensen warned those who took or sold native frogs illegally and whose who bought them would face fines.
“We warned those people who bought the frogs of that man to educate the public but that could change if we see more cases,” he said.
Anyone with information of illegal take, keep or trade of wildlife should call DES on 1300 130 372.
