Frog Care buying guide

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Contents

1 Habitats (aka Vivariums)
2 External Links

Frog Care

So you've chosen to buy a pet frog...well done! Frogs can be a very rewarding pet, living on average 4-15 years in captivity, and ranging in colours and sizes. However, you should be prepared to care for a frog as you would a cat or dog. Some expenses are necessary in getting started, particularly in building a habitat.

The following is a list of frogs that are ideal for beginner frog owners, as they require relatively little attention. Some, however, may be quite sedentary and thus considered boring. All frogs require one of four different habitats: aquatic, semi-aquatic, arboreal, and terrestrial.

Dwarf Frogs - Aquatic, small and very active.
Pacman Frogs - Terrestrial, large and sedentary.
White Tree Frog - Terrestrial, fairly inactive.
African Clawed Frog - Aquatic, grow quite large, simple to care for. Often cited as the best frog for beginners.
Northern Leopard Frogs - Semi-terrestrial, must hibernate in the winter.
American Green Tree Frog - Terrestrial, simple to care for.

Habitats (aka Vivariums)

In general, a 20 gallon tank is sufficient for most species.

Aquatic

Essentially a fish tank. You will need water pumps, filtration systems, and cleaning supplies.

Semi-Aquatic

The majority of frogs are going to need a semi-aquatic habitat. The simplest way to do this is to fill the tank with water and place a large rock on one side. Place a divider to create a pool on one side, fill the other with reusable gravel or smooth stones and cover it with moss.

Terrestrial

Suited for frogs who prefer dry climates. Simple substrate with a water source (usually a bowl or a pool), as well as some scenery and decorations for stimulation.

Arboreal

Tree frogs spend most of their lives in the branches of trees, so you will want a taller tank in which taller plants and vines can grow. Make sure you incorporate a thick branch for climbing.

Also look into...

Scenery is very important for frogs, so be sure to include waterfalls, shrubs, rocks and a colourful background (blues, greens and browns) to provide stimulation. Also look into: volcanoes, caves, rocks.

Bedding comes in several varieties, including disposable, washable and edible, and can be supplemented with stones, sand and moss depending on your frog's preference.

Most frogs eat a mix of insects, especially crickets, which can be found in most pet stores.

Use florescent lighting and ensure the frog gets about twelve hours of light every day. Generally, most frogs do not need specialized lighting, but check your specific species' needs just to make sure.

External Links

AllAboutFrogs.org


Scenery is very important for frogs, so be sure to include waterfalls, shrubs, rocks and a colourful background (blues, greens and browns) to provide stimulation. Also look into: volcanoes, caves, rocks.	Bedding comes in several varieties, including disposable, washable and edible, and can be supplemented with stones, sand and moss depending on your frog's preference.	Most frogs eat a mix of insects, especially crickets, which can be found in most pet stores.	Use florescent lighting and ensure the frog gets about twelve hours of light every day. Generally, most frogs do not need specialized lighting, but check your specific species' needs just to make sure.