Cuban Tree Frog

Osteopilus septentrionalis

   The Cuban Tree Frog is a large, rough skinned, cannibalistic arboreal frog. Males reach about 5 inches and females may reach over 6 inches SVL. These frogs can change their colors rapidly, with the possibilities including deep brown, grey, white, and tan. Cubans acclimate to new climates at a surprising rate, and while this is wonderful for the species, it is detrimental to the native fauna. This species is highly invasive, and survives by consuming the native frog population and taking over their mating grounds and forests.

-In Nature-

Range

The natural habitats of Osteopilus septentrionalis are forests in Cuba, the Bahamas, and the Cayman Islands. This species is invasive in the Southeastern USA, Puerto Rico, and Hawaii so far.

Life Span

These frogs live about 5 years in the wild on average.

Diet 

In their natural habitat, these frogs eat anything they can swallow.

-In Captivity-

Life Span

In captivity, these frogs are known to live up to 10 years.

Diet

Captive Cubans may be fed crickets, mealworms, and roaches.

Housing

A 20gal aquarium-turned-terrarium may house two adults comfortably. The enclosure should have plants, logs, and vines for climbing. The water dish should be shallow to avoid drowning, and large enough that all frogs may soak at once.

Feeding

Each Adult should be fed 4 to 6 crickets, or substitute prey, every other day. Prey items should be calcium dusted every 2 to 3 feedings.

Temperature

78 to 88°F

Humidity

40 to 60%

Heating & Lighting

A 25 or 50 Watt halogen will accommodate heating and lighting needs. UVB not required.

Handling

Cuban Tree Frogs secrete a toxic mucus when threatened. They should be handled, only when necessary, with gloves.

Compatibility

Due to the cannibalistic nature of these frogs, individuals are best kept solitary, or with other same-sized members of their species.