This species is easily classified as a tree frog, by its prominent toe discs. The call is a very distinct low growl, sounding uncannily like a motorbike, thus giving rise to the frog's other common name, the motorbike frog. It is generally resident around suburban lakes, in flooded melaleucas and in areas of dense reed cover. It forages nocturnally, primarily eating flying insects and occasionally, ground dwelling ants and beetles. Breeding occurs in summer, after rain.
Males spend many nights calling to attract a mate.
When a suitable mate is found, breeding occurs and eggs are laid in the form of a floating mass, attached to vegetation. Threats Perth's much loved tree frog is unfortunately succumbing to the many threats imposed by humanity. Because this species is resident in and around Perth, it is particularly at risk from the actions of humans. Much of the former range of this species, along the Swan and Canning Rivers, has been cleared as a result of development. Large areas of the catchment have disappeared and the suburban wetlands which the frogs inhabited, have largely succumbed to degradation, weed invasion, pollution and infilling for housing.