Whites Treefrog (Litoria caerulea) (Dumpy Frog) Captive Bred 2023

A Great Introductory Amphibian

White’s Tree Frogs are an incredibly docile amphibian that is unafraid of humans and often lives in close contact with people throughout its habitat. These chubby frogs are also known as Dumpy Tree Frogs because of their pudgy bodies and the large bulges they grow above their heads as adults. They can range in color from bright green to a beautiful teal blue and sometimes even appear purple. In captivity, there is a selectively bred line known as a Snowflake which exhibits extreme amounts of white speckling all over its body. Reluctant to jump, hardy, and large at 4-5” as adults, these frogs make a great first amphibian pet for anyone.

Habitat

White’s Tree Frogs are native to northern and eastern Australia and the island of New Guinea. These tropical frogs enjoy warm humid climates although they are not usually found in tropical rainforests. They can be found in tree canopies near bodies of water but have also been found in terrestrial habitats with no water nearby. They prefer old Eucalyptus trees with water filled hollows to hide in. They are commonly found throughout their distribution area of over 1,574,000 square miles.

Caging

These hardy frogs are very forgiving when it comes to their terrarium conditions. A 20 gallon horizontal terrarium should be considered a minimum size for 4 young frogs. Treefrogs like to climb, so a taller terrarium that can accommodate larger climbing plants and branches is a good idea if possible.
White’s treefrogs are gregarious, but avoid keeping very young (small) frogs with older individuals – they are not above cannibalism.

Lighting, Temperature and Humidity

The frogs themselves do not require lighting of any kind, but if you choose to grow plants, a freshwater aquarium light is a good choice. Fluorescent models give out less heat than incandescent ones, and overheating and rapid drying can stress these frogs. There are a variety of amphibian fluorescent bulbs available from multiple herp specializing companies. A good daytime temperature is about 80 oF. This can be achieved by using a heat mat on the side of the terrarium with a thermostat, such as the Zilla Heat Mat Terrarium Heater and Zilla Terrarium Heat & Habitat Lighting Controller for Reptiles. Slightly cooler nighttime conditions will simulate temperature changes found in the wild. A tight-fitting but ventilated terrarium lid is a necessity – lack of ventilation can cause respiratory problems.

Substrate

The substrate should be a fine particulate soil or ground coconut fiber, such as Zoo Med Eco Earth Compressed Coconut Fiber Reptile Substrate. This will retain moisture well and the small particle size will not impact the frog’s gut if any is ingested accidentally.

Food

Gut-loaded crickets are a good staple food. Feed as many crickets as the frogs will eat in 10-15 minutes. For adults, feed 2-3 times per week. For youngsters, feed every 1-2 days. Earthworms are another staple food. Treat foods include waxworms, mealworms, superworms, and other live reptile foods.

Water

Humidity should be maintained by regular misting with distilled water. You can also use a water bowl (use spring water or dechlorinated tap water in bowls) in case the humidity changes suddenly and the frogs need water.

Handling

Unlike many amphibians, White’s Tree Frogs will tolerate some level of careful, deliberate handling and can often become fairly accustomed to it . As with all amphibians, their skin is soft and permeable so wash your hands thoroughly and avoid any lotions, creams, or oils before handling them.

Also be sure to wash your hands after handling any reptiles or amphibians.

Photo of actual frog..