The estimated population size of Leiopelma hamiltoni on Maud Island is around 19,000, with the minimum population estimate being around 6,500. The population is much smaller on Stephans Island, with a population estimate of about 200 to 300 individuals. They reside in a small patch at the peak of Stephan's Island which is known as “frog bank”. However, fossils show that the species may have previously had a larger range, with fossils being found scattered all over New Zealand. Remains have been found at Waitoma, Hawkes Bay, and Wairarapa, which are all located on the North Island of New Zealand. Much of the island has been modified due to farming, forcing all the frogs to live in the same section of rainforest that remains. Behavior These frogs are nocturnal, so they are the most active at night. They will occasionally come out during the day to feed, as long as there are humid and moist conditions. They prefer cool and misty nights and are most active when temperatures are between 8 degrees celsius to 14 degrees celsius. They do not travel far, and will usually stay within a 5 meter radius for multiple years at a time. Individuals will also hide and rest in the same spot, typically in a damp rock or log crevice. The frogs will co-habit these retreat sites, with multiple frogs residing inside at a time. This species typically live very closely to one another which would signal socialith. However, since their habitats have become so small, it is unclear whether they do this for social reasons or simply because there is not much space to spread out. Leiopelma hamiltoni also live for an extremely long time, compared to other frog species. Tagged frogs had been found to have lived up to 30 years after their initial tagging. Scientists have estimated that their likely life span is around 23–33 years. They also have unique hunting habits, as they catch their prey by catching it directly with their mouths, rather than with their tongues. Habitat Hamilton's frog is a nocturnal ground-dwelling species. There is growing observational evidence that it may live in some trees as well. It shelters in damp crevices during the day, and prefers rocks and boulders for survival. They can be difficult to locate because of this night-time activity, plus they are well camouflaged, do not croak, and are very rare. The community of