Family Breviceptidae STRAWBERRY RAIN FROG – Breviceps acutirostris Poynton, 1963 Habitat B. acutirostris occurs only in areas of high precipitation in uplands and mountains, both in Mountain Fynbos and in Afromontane Forest. Where mountains reach the coast, the species can occur at sea level (e.g. Betty’s Bay 3418BD; Grootbos 3419CB). The soils in these habitats are coarse, acidic sands derived from Table Mountain Sandstone, frequently admixed with peaty deposits.
Family Breviceptidae
STRAWBERRY RAIN FROG – Breviceps acutirostris
Poynton, 1963
Habitat
B. acutirostris occurs only in areas of high precipitation in uplands and mountains, both in Mountain Fynbos and in Afromontane Forest. Where mountains reach the coast, the species can occur at sea level (e.g. Betty’s Bay 3418BD; Grootbos 3419CB). The soils in these habitats are coarse, acidic sands derived from Table Mountain Sandstone, frequently admixed with peaty deposits.
Strawberry Rain Frog (Cape Short-headed Frog)
Strawberry Rain Frog (Cape Short-headed Frog)
Strawberry Rain Frog (Cape Short-headed Frog)
Behaviour
Calling occurs both at night and during the day, usually during and after rain showers in winter and spring (June–November), but dense mist may be sufficient to stimulate calling. In Grootvadersbosch forest, males have been observed calling from above the ground, on top of logs (C.N. Spottiswoode pers. comm.; H. Braack pers. comm). In fynbos, the species has been found calling above ground in dense vegetation (M. Burger pers. comm), and from short burrows situated below low, covering vegetation (pers. obs.). Adhesive amplexus is employed during mating.
Breviceps acutirostris – Landdroskop, Western Cape
Photo by Felicity Grundlingh
An amplexed pair, with a freshly laid egg mass comprising 24 eggs, was unearthed in Mountain Fynbos in the Boosmansbos Wilderness Area, on 22 October 1986 (D. McDonald pers. comm.). The pair was found in a chamber at the lower end of a network of tunnels covering an area of about 1 m2. Some branches of the tunnels ended blindly, while others formed loops off the main tunnel leading to the egg chamber. The nest site was located on a cool, moist slope in sandy loam soil, covered by prostrate Cliffortia ferruginea. The eggs measured 6.5–7.8 mm (mean = 7) in diameter (L.R. Minter unpubl. data).
Little is known about the biology of this species. Studies of the differences in call structure and habitat partitioning between B. acutirostris and B. fuscus in areas of sympatry would be of particular interest.
Status and Conservation
The montane habitat of B. acutirostris is generally little disturbed and occurs within many protected areas such as the Marloth Nature Reserve, Boosmansbos Wilderness Area and Grootvadersbosch State Forest. This species is not threatened.
Breviceps acutirostris – Grootvadersbosch, Western Cape
Distribution
B. acutirostris is restricted to the southwestern ranges of the Cape fold mountains. The most westerly range in which it occurs is the Hottentotsholland Mountains (3318DD, 3418BB), the most easterly the Langeberg Mountains (3321CD); these ranges also represent the northern limits of the species. The map indicates a gap in distribution corresponding to the eastern Hottentotsholland and Riviersonderend mountains; this apparent absence requires confirmation. The species does not occur on the Cape Peninsula. The eastern extremities of its range overlap that of B. fuscus.
The atlas records are reliable, but sparse. Additional surveys may fill some gaps, especially in mountainous areas not adequately covered during the atlas project. The advertisement calls of B. acutirostris and B. fuscus are quite similar in structure (Passmore and Carruthers 1995; Channing 2001). However, the call rate is distinctly faster in acutirostris (L.R. Minter pers. obs). In areas where both species may occur, aural records should have been supported by tape recordings of the calls, and by voucher specimens. This was seldom done, resulting in the possibility of some misidentifications.
Distribution of Breviceps acutirostris. Taken from the FrogMAP database, April 2022.
Strawberry rain frog
Further Resources
Virtual Museum (FrogMAP > Search VM > By Scientific or Common Name)
More common names: Cape Short-headed Frog (Alternative English Name); Aarbei-blaasoppadda (Afrikaans)
Strawberry Rain Frog
Strawberry Rain Frog
Strawberry Rain Frog (Cape Short-headed Frog)
Grootvadersbosch, managed by Capenature, was the chosen location to find this very special Rain Frog; raining all night, we knew that we would have a reasonable chance of finally finding this special Western Cape Frog.
Strawberry rain frog
Strawberry Rain Frog
The Common Rain Frog or Strawberry Rain Frog (Breviceps acutirostris) is a species of frog in the Brevicipitidae family. It is endemic to South Africa and lives in temperate forests and Mediterranean-type shrubby vegetation. Habitat loss threatens the frog.
Range Description 4
This species is endemic to the southwestern Cape and South Africa mountains, from Hottentots Holland east to the Langeberg. It ranges from sea level up to 1,600 m asl.
As we traversed the rugged, uneven dirt road, drawing nearer to the majestic Langeberg mountains, the familiar blue signage of Capenatue indicated a mere 6 kilometres remaining, instilling within us a sense of anticipation to once again immerse ourselves amidst the Champion Redwoods of the Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve. Its recent designation as a World Heritage Site is noteworthy.
The vast mountains were veiled by thick mist, accompanied by a gentle drizzle and a palpable chill in the air. Upon passing through the inviting entrance gates of the reserve, the fragrance of the forest enveloped us.
We had reserved a tented deck in the Glamping section a year prior, and owing to the burgeoning popularity of this recent addition to Capenature’s offerings at Grootvadersbosch, we eagerly retrieved our keys from reception.
Despite the rain, our enthusiasm remained undiminished. It struck us as peculiar to celebrate precipitation during the Easter long weekend. However, the rain was essential for our Herping expedition within this pristine forest nestled amidst the Langeberg, within a valley sculpted by the Duiwenhoks River. Our primary objective was to locate the Strawberry Rain Frog, also known as the Short-headed Rain Frog. Since our visit seven years prior, we have been fascinated with this distinctive amphibian species endemic to these mountains. Regrettably, our initial attempts were unsuccessful, hence our optimism for a fortunate third endeavour.
During our previous visit to Cape Nature in 2017, we observed the construction of the new Glamping Decks. Enthralled by this development, we resolved to return and indulge in this novel experience, coupled with the myriad activities offered by this remarkable reserve. Unbeknownst to us, the entire camping infrastructure had undergone an upgrade, including new ablution facilities, a welcoming pool, and a play area.
As ardent nature enthusiasts, our focus naturally gravitated towards the environment and its inhabitants. Cape Greysbok, bushbuck, and baboons roamed the vicinity, necessitating vigilance to deter the latter’s intrusive advances.
The constant rain persisted as we settled down with a glass of red wine, revelling in the forest’s nocturnal symphony. In the distance, a Fiery-necked Nightjar’s call resonated; while we were convinced, we discerned the hoot of an African Wood Owl from the campsite. This would be our sanctuary for the ensuing nights.
Arising before dawn, we embarked on familiar trails, hoping to glimpse the elusive nightjar or, ideally, the Wood Owl that had serenaded us during the night. With sunrise heralding the commencement of a new day, we roused the family, eager to commence our herping expedition and delve deeper into the forest. Lacking specific guidance on locating the Strawberry Rain Frog, we gravitated towards the Californian Redwoods. Thirty minutes into our woodland Forest hike, fortune smiled upon us. Beaming with delight, we beheld the diminutive creature we had long sought. Nearly seven years in the making, this achievement marked a significant milestone in our quest.
Following a flurry of photographs and videos, we gently returned the frog to its sandy habitat. Traversing the dense jungle canopy, we were captivated by the ethereal beauty of these ancient forests. A moss-covered wooden sign denoting the Redwoods with a small arrow beckoned us deeper into the verdant embrace of towering arboreal giants.
Descending the slopes towards the Duivenhoks River, we marvelled at the sylvan splendour surrounding us. Birdsong and the gentle murmur of the river accompanied our herping excursion as we revelled in the unspoiled tranquillity of this idyllic setting. Time seemed to lose significance as we temporarily escaped the burdens of reality.
Returning to base camp, our efforts were rewarded with discovering a second Strawberry Rain Frog. Another poignant encounter ensued, allowing us to admire this exquisite reptile before releasing it into its sandy abode.
The ensuing morning greeted us with a glorious sunrise and clear skies, ideal conditions for our cycling expedition through the Boosmansbos section of Grootvadersbosch. Vast expanses and deep canyons, sculpted by meandering rivers, unfolded before us.
Cape Nature thoughtfully constructed scenic viewing decks at strategic intervals along our 6-kilometre cycling route, offering respite for a leisurely picnic whilst admiring the panoramic vistas across the valleys, dominated by the towering peak of Grootbeg at 1600 meters above sea level. The juxtaposition of our proximity to these majestic cliffs against the vast expanse of the landscape imbued us with a profound sense of insignificance.
As we cycled downhill towards our camp, we were enveloped by the fragrance of indigenous fynbos flora; we revelled in yet another breathtaking vista, a testament to the remarkable beauty of our surroundings. With temperatures soaring into the high thirties, we sought refuge by the pool, luxuriating in the recently upgraded facilities. Our compliments extend to Cape Nature for transforming the original camp into a world-class facility, mainly catering to families with children.
We left the following morning with a profound sense of fulfilment.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Cape Nature for curating a delightful outdoor experience for families. We recommend visiting this enchanting nature reserve for all enthusiasts of camping, the great outdoors, nature, and hiking, where endless exploration awaits.
Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve
Managed by Capenature:
The reserve’s 250ha of Southern Afrotemperate forest is the most prominent remaining example in the Langeberg. The reserve’s highest peak, Grootberg, is 1637 metres above sea level. Most of the thirty-five typical Southern Afrotemperate forests are present, including stinkwood, yellowwood, red alder and the dominant ironwood.
Visitors to this beautiful reserve will relish going into the forest on day walks and mountain biking trails. This is an excellent birding destination, with more than 196 bird species regularly spotted. Hikers will likely bump into bushbuck and spot baboons and smaller mammals on the trails. Sighting the Forest emperor butterfly and a subspecies of the rare Ghost frog would be the highlight of a visit here, as they can only be found in this particular forest.
Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve is a sanctuary of tranquillity, a place that seems to have sprung from the pages of a fairy tale. Visitors are enveloped in the gentle, dappled light of the indigenous forest as they hike and can cool off in the serene, tea-coloured river water, sheltered by ancient trees.
Grootvadersbosch is a hidden gem among the Western Cape reserves, its allure enhanced by its air of self-contained mystery. This is the place to be for those seeking a truly unique experience. Day walks, mountain biking trails, and the Boosmansbos Wilderness Area offer a variety of challenges for those who crave immersion in the Wilderness. A rare privilege awaits those who spot the forest emperor butterfly or a subspecies of the elusive ghost frog, both found exclusively in this forest. Cape Nature provides a range of accommodations, from newly refurbished cabins to comfortable and well-equipped campsites, ensuring a comfortable stay for all.
Boosmansbos Wilderness Area
Boosmansbos Wilderness Area lies in the Lange-Berg mountains, 22 km northwest of Heidelberg, in the southwestern Cape. It is 14 200ha in extent and is incorporated into Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve. The name derives from a hermit living in the forest in the early 19th century. Boosmansbos was proclaimed a Wilderness Area in 1978 and managed to maintain its natural systems and safeguard its pristine environment. As part of the Cape Floral Kingdom, it was declared a World Heritage Site
in 2004.
Climate and landscape
The Langeberg mountains lie in the transitional zone between winter and all-year rainfall regions. Boosmansbos has an average annual rainfall of 1 050 mm. Drier periods are from May to July and December to January. Berg wind conditions prevail from May to July. Grootberg (1 637m) is the highest peak in Boosmansbos. Several rivers originate in the Wilderness Area, including the Duiwenhoks River and its tributary, the Noukrans River. The soils in this area are derived mainly from Table Mountain sandstone. Isolated pockets of Bokkeveld shales occur, and the indigenous forests are found on these.
Plants and animals
Mountain fynbos and forest vegetation occur in the Wilderness Area. There are several rare species, especially among the Erica family: Erica blenna, E. barryda- lensis and E. langebergensis. Mammals found here include grey reedbuck, klipspringer, grysbok, baboons, leopard, mongoose and genet. The area is affluent in birdlife, with 184 species recorded, including black, martial, crowned and booted eagles, red-winged and redneck francolins, black rumped buttonquail, and striped.
flufftail and Layard’s titbabbler.
Activities
As this is a Wilderness Area, the paths are unmarked, and huts provide only basic shelter. A rudimentary toilet facility is provided. Hikers should be well-equipped for rugged terrain and adverse weather conditions and must carry an accurate map of the area. A maximum of 12 people per day are allowed.
There are 64km of paths, and hikers may choose their routes. The circular two-day route indicated on the map is the preferred trail. This trail, mostly an old jeep track, leads up Loerklip and back down Saagkuilkloof. If heavy rains are experienced during the hike, it is advised to return via the Loerklip path as the Duiwenhoks River may be in flood.
Hikers should note that all refuse must be carried out and that fires are prohibited. Reservations are essential.
Enquiries & Reservations
Tel: 087 087 8250 or
E-mail: reservation.alert@capenature.co.za
Strawberry Rain Frog
Strawberry Rain Frog
Strawberry Rain Frog
Strawberry Rain Frog
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