Central American Red-Eyed Tree Frog

Agalychnis callidryas

   The Red-Eyed tree frog is a vibrantly patterned arboreal frog. This species flaunts a green dorsum, white underside, blue and yellow striped sides, blue inner forearms and thighs, orange feet, and bright red eyes. Depending on the location each frog originates from, the colors may slightly differ in shade or color. Costa Rican Red-Eyes sport an almost neon green, while those from Nicaragua may appear more blue-ish green. In captivity, morphs such as Purple and Albino have become sought after and bred. Male RETFs reach about 1½ to 2 inches SVL, while females may reach up to 3 inches.

-In Nature-

Range

The natural habitats of Agalychnis callidryas are Central and South American rain forests.

Life Span

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

Diet 

In their natural habitat, these frogs eat moths, flies, grasshoppers, nocturnal arboreal insects, and even smaller frogs.

-In Captivity-

Life Span

In captivity, these frogs are known to live 5+ years.

Diet

RETFs are picky as a whole, and will probably choose crickets as their favorite snack. Mealworms and silkworms may be offered, but may also be refused.

Housing

An 18x18x24 terrarium, or 29 gallon converted aquarium, may house three to four adults comfortably. The enclosure should have many plants, logs, and vines for climbing, as well as many hiding places in the upper regions. The water dish should be shallow to avoid drowning, and large enough that all frogs may soak at once. The substrate should be coconut fiber, orchid bark, or moist paper towel.

Feeding

Each Adult should be offered 2 to 3 prey items every other day. Prey items should be vitamin and calcium dusted before every feeding.

Temperature

78 to 85°F days, with 68 to 75°F nights

Humidity

60 to 85%

Heating & Lighting

A 25 or 50 Watt halogen, or common incandescent bulb, will accommodate heating and lighting needs. UVB is beneficial, but not required.

Handling

Although these frogs may allow themselves to be handled seldomly, this should be avoided unless necessary to avoid absorption of oils and other toxic matter. Frogs should only be handled with gloved or expertly cleaned hands.

Compatibility

RETFs are social, and thrive when kept in groups, when provided with enough space, as long as all tank mates are the same or very similar in size.