Frogs as pets are increasing n popularity. This is part of a trend where reptile sales are growing year after year. Popular frogs include the PacMan, known for its PacMan like visual appeal, and the Green Treefrog. Treefrogs thrive in small groups and are very friendly. Toads, Frogs and Newts are only appropriate for children 10 and up thanks to the risk of spreading salmonella. This is \avoided with good hygiene such as using an anti-bacterial soap on hands after handling the frog.
Frogs are also popular due to their manageable size. Most amphibians are 2 inches to 4 inches in length. Some species such as the Ornate Horned Frog can grow to 9 inches long. Other aspects of caring for Frogs include the need to create a tropical habitat. hese pets primarily eat insects, are nocturnal, and are excellent climbers. Owning any frog is a long lasting commitment, with many living 15 or more years in captivity.
The characteristics and habits of pet frogs depends upon the species. As an example, several species like to bury themselves in the substrate (substance that covers the base of a vivarium) while some climb in trees. Most frogs will need a spot to hide. A hiding box or space reduces stress and helps an amphibian feel protected.
There is one problem with having frogs as pets. People must keep touching and handling to a minimum. They have delicate skin that provides added breathing capacity. Handling by humans can expose the frog to infection and reduce this important skin function.
Another challenge is the frog diet. These insectivores thrive on insects like crickets, waxworms and mealworms. In addition to insects, frogs require a dietary supplement to make up for a lack of light from the sun when in captivity. Most frogs also need make up for a calcium insufficiency.
Creating a vivarium is one of the most rewarding aspects of caring for a pet frog. A tropical habitat balances land and water areas to create a place where the frog can thrive. To raise humidity levels, tanks are covered with a substrate such as moss. Plants and daily misting with water also will keep humidity levels high
Since many frogs live in the tropics, they also need higher levels of heat during the day. Depending on the species, daytime temperatures should range from 80F on the cool end of the tank to 85F on the heated end.. After dark the temperature needs to be a few degrees lower. This is done with a ceramic heat lamp placed on the exterior of the tank,
With all the above you are now prepared to purchase a pet. Be sure to check the condition of any frog before purchasing. A good reptile will be alert, have clear eyes, will vocalize (if applicable for that species), and will most likely be active. A pet frog can provide years of joy. Frogs in captivity can live for ten or more years.
Frogs are also popular due to their manageable size. Most amphibians are 2 inches to 4 inches in length. Some species such as the Ornate Horned Frog can grow to 9 inches long. Other aspects of caring for Frogs include the need to create a tropical habitat. hese pets primarily eat insects, are nocturnal, and are excellent climbers. Owning any frog is a long lasting commitment, with many living 15 or more years in captivity.
The characteristics and habits of pet frogs depends upon the species. As an example, several species like to bury themselves in the substrate (substance that covers the base of a vivarium) while some climb in trees. Most frogs will need a spot to hide. A hiding box or space reduces stress and helps an amphibian feel protected.
There is one problem with having frogs as pets. People must keep touching and handling to a minimum. They have delicate skin that provides added breathing capacity. Handling by humans can expose the frog to infection and reduce this important skin function.
Another challenge is the frog diet. These insectivores thrive on insects like crickets, waxworms and mealworms. In addition to insects, frogs require a dietary supplement to make up for a lack of light from the sun when in captivity. Most frogs also need make up for a calcium insufficiency.
Creating a vivarium is one of the most rewarding aspects of caring for a pet frog. A tropical habitat balances land and water areas to create a place where the frog can thrive. To raise humidity levels, tanks are covered with a substrate such as moss. Plants and daily misting with water also will keep humidity levels high
Since many frogs live in the tropics, they also need higher levels of heat during the day. Depending on the species, daytime temperatures should range from 80F on the cool end of the tank to 85F on the heated end.. After dark the temperature needs to be a few degrees lower. This is done with a ceramic heat lamp placed on the exterior of the tank,
With all the above you are now prepared to purchase a pet. Be sure to check the condition of any frog before purchasing. A good reptile will be alert, have clear eyes, will vocalize (if applicable for that species), and will most likely be active. A pet frog can provide years of joy. Frogs in captivity can live for ten or more years.
About the Author:
Cathy Doggins is the author of this and lots of other articles on amphibians. When not writing about unusual animals, Cathy can be found adopting her next lizard, rodent or rabbit or playing with her dogs, cats, rabbits and guinea pigs.
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