Cuban Tree Frog

Looks how to spot one

Skin

The skin is smooth and moist, with large toe pads for climbing. The dorsal skin is fused to the skull in adults, a unique feature. Colour and pattern vary greatly between individuals, from plain to heavily patterned, in shades of gray, tan, brown, bronze, olive-green or blue-green. Juveniles may show blue-tinted bones through their translucent skin.2

Personality what they are like

Cuban tree frogs are generally docile but do not enjoy being handled. They secrete a sticky, toxic mucus that can burn eyes and trigger allergic reactions, especially in sensitive individuals. They are best appreciated as observational pets rather than handled frequently.46

Daily activity how busy a day looks

These frogs are nocturnal and most active at night. They are excellent climbers and need vertical space with branches and plants. They do not require large enclosures; a 10-gallon tall terrarium is sufficient for two adults. Provide hiding spots and a shallow water dish.51

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Maintain a moist, humid environment with temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C) during the day, dropping to 65°F (18°C) at night. Mist the enclosure every other day with aged water. Clean the water dish regularly and remove waste promptly. Replace substrate every 3-4 months. Handle minimally and wash hands thoroughly after any contact.56

Home where they are happiest

Provide a tall terrarium with a secure lid, a substrate of gravel topped with moist potting soil and peat moss, and live plants like bromeliads for shelter. Keep a shallow water dish and maintain high humidity. Temperature range 70-85°F (21-29°C) during the day, with a night-time drop to 65°F (18°C).56

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Cuban tree frogs are carnivorous and eat a wide variety of invertebrates, including crickets, waxworms, mealworms, and other insects. Large adults may take small pink mice. Feed adults 2-3 times per week, offering as many prey as they will consume in one night. Dust prey with a calcium/vitamin supplement once a week.61

Company who they like around

Cuban tree frogs are solitary and should be housed alone or with similar-sized individuals. They are cannibalistic and will eat smaller frogs, so avoid housing different sizes together. They are not social animals and do not require companionship. Handling should be minimised due to their toxic skin secretions.45

The story where it all began

The Cuban tree frog is native to Cuba, the Isle of Youth, the Cayman Islands and the Bahamas. It was first recorded in the United States in the Florida Keys in the 1920s, likely arriving as a stowaway in shipping crates from the Caribbean. By the mid-1970s, it had spread throughout southern Florida and is now established across much of the peninsula and parts of the Panhandle. It has also been introduced to other Caribbean islands and has been reported in Georgia and Louisiana. In its native and introduced ranges, it is a common and adaptable species, often found near human habitation. As a pet, it has been kept for decades, valued for its hardiness and ease of care, though its toxic skin secretions make it less suitable for children or frequent handling.12

Recognised by the official bits

USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species

Largest treefrog in the US, averaging 1-4 inches (28-165 mm) snout-vent length, with females larger than males. Highly variable colour and pattern, ranging from gray, tan, brown, bronze, olive-green to blue-green. Distinctive large toe pads and fused skull skin.2