Western New York Herpetological Society
www.wnyherp.org
©
2001 - 2003 by Western New York Herpetological Society
This document is for guidance only and should not be used as the sole source of information. New information is being developed
daily. It is recommend that a concerted effort be made to maintain up-to-date knowledge of the animals of interest.
Common Name:
Cuban Tree Frog Latin Name: Osteopilus septentrionalis
Native to:
Cuba and surrounding islands; established in southern Florida
Size:
Males 1-3 inches Females up to 5 inches
Life span:
5 years
General appearance:
Colors range from gray to tan to brownish-green. Many have marbled patterns or
darker blotching and may have striping on the legs. Skin is textured, or “warty”. Eyes are large
and have sticky “cups” on their toes. Males may have darker throats.
Housing requirements:
Enclosure:
A 20 gallon aquarium with a tight fitting lid is appropriate; however a 10 gallon is an
absolute minimum. An arboreal enclosure is the best choice, as tree frogs will spend most
of their time being high in the enclosure. Plants and hollow logs and branches provide
shelter and security. Cuban Tree Frogs should not be kept with even slightly smaller tree
frogs.
Temperature:
Temperatures should be 82º F – 85º F daytime and 72º F - 75º F nighttime.
Heat/Light:
Cuban tree frogs are nocturnal. There are no specific lighting requirements. Live
plants will require a full spectrum light. A under tank heater can be used but do not use
heat rocks.
Substrate:
Potting soil, peat moss or a few sheets of damp paper towels on the bottom. Avoid
using small bark and gravel due to danger of ingestion.
Environment:
A moderate amount of humidity (60%) is required. This can be achieved through
misting of the frogs and enclosure two or more times a day. Additionally a shallow water
dish for soaking is required.
Diet:
Insectivores - crickets, cockroaches, locusts, moths and beetles. Pinky mice may also be occasionally
used. Adult Cuban tree frogs should be fed once every two to three days. Young tree frogs should
be fed more frequently. Fat is stored in the supratympanic ridges. Oversized supratympanic ridges
indicates over eating and feeding.
Maintenance:
Clean the enclosure weekly. Remove dead insects and clean water bowl as several times a
week or as needed, but no less than weekly. You may wash with a mild bleach solution (5%) or
liquid soap and toughly rinse. Regular handling should be avoided. Hands most be washed and
rinsed prior to touching the frog and should remain wet.