Gray Tree Frogs are among the most widespread and interesting tree frog species in the United States, inhabiting a vast area along the North Eastern coast. Due to their wide distribution across various climates, their care requirements can vary depending on their origin. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the diet and care of Gray Tree Frogs, incorporating insights from experienced keepers and herpetologists.
Understanding Gray Tree Frogs
Gray Tree Frogs are relatively small, typically ranging from 2 to 2.5 inches in length, with females generally larger than males. Within this group, there are two distinct species: the Gray Tree Frog and Cope's Gray Tree Frog. While their care requirements are identical, Cope's Gray Tree Frogs are often observed to be shyer, more arboreal, and slightly larger. The most reliable way to differentiate between the two is by their mating calls, although some argue that even this method isn't foolproof.
Legal Considerations
Before acquiring a Gray Tree Frog, it's crucial to check your state's regulations regarding native species. Some states, like Tennessee and Delaware, may prohibit keeping native species, while others, like Pennsylvania, permit it under specific conditions. This article does not condone poaching or illegally possessing wild animals.
Mimicking Natural Habitat
The key to successfully keeping native frogs and toads lies in replicating their natural environment as closely as possible. Consider the specific conditions where the frog was found, including temperature and humidity levels.
Temperature and Humidity
A general rule of thumb for native tree frogs is to mimic the average low temperatures from May to July in their native habitat. The temperature can be adjusted to reflect seasonal changes in the wild. A suitable temperature range for Gray Tree Frogs is between 65-78°F (18-26°C). Humidity should be maintained at 55-65% to prevent respiratory problems and encourage activity.
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Lighting
The use of UVB lighting for amphibians is a topic of debate. However, UVB light can aid in the synthesis of calcium and vitamin D3, benefiting the frog's overall health. Pairing UVB with an LED light can provide ample brightness and promote plant growth in bioactive setups. T5 lights can also be used, but they generate heat.
Enclosure Design and Accessories
Creating a visually appealing and functional enclosure involves incorporating various accessories. Driftwood provides climbing opportunities, while misters and foggers help maintain humidity levels. The Evergreen Pet Supplies Reptile Fogger is a durable option for boosting humidity. For misting systems, Mistking and Exo Terra are reputable brands.
Other beneficial accessories include fake plants, real plants, and hygrometers for monitoring temperature and humidity.
Plants
Both tropical and native plants can be used to enhance the enclosure. English Ivy and Autumn Brilliance Fern are suitable for most setups. Day Lilies can be used with bright LED lights, while evergreen plants are generally safe. Other tropical options include Diff Plants, Peace Lilies, Palms, and Lucky Bamboo. Live plants require more maintenance but create a more natural environment. Fake plants can be used as a substitute.
Substrate
Gray Tree Frogs require a bushy setup for hiding and security. Various soil mediums, such as Eco Earth, Plantation Soil, and Josh's Frogs ABG mix, are suitable. Avoid using sand and small pebbles, as they can cause impaction if ingested. A paludarium setup with both land and water can also be used, ensuring the water is shallow to prevent drowning.
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Enclosure Size
A 10-gallon tank is often considered adequate for a few frogs. However, a 29 or 30-gallon tank is more suitable for up to six frogs. Exo Terra 18x18x18 is a good minimum size, while Exo Terra 36x18x36 is an excellent maximum size. Height and width are crucial for this arboreal species.
Social Behavior and Housing
Gray Tree Frogs appear to be communal and benefit from the company of other Gray Tree Frogs. Studies suggest that they can recognize kin as tadpoles and during breeding season. While they are generally communal, competition for food can occur, especially with larger groups. It's advisable to limit the group size to around 10 frogs.
Diet and Feeding
In the wild, Gray Tree Frogs primarily consume insects and their larvae, including moths, tree crickets, ants, flies, grasshoppers, beetles, mites, spiders, plant lice, snails, and slugs. In captivity, a varied diet is essential for their health and well-being.
Recommended Feeders
- Crickets: 1/2 inch crickets, including Banded Crickets and House Crickets, are a staple food source.
- Waxworms: These can be obtained from local pet stores. If allowed to metamorphose, they turn into nutritious moths.
- Butterworms: Another nutritious feeder option.
- Calci Worms: A good source of calcium.
- House Flies: Captive-bred house flies are a suitable option.
- Mealworms: Offer as an occasional treat, ideally after they have just shed.
- Isopods: These can be included as part of a bioactive setup.
- Flightless Fruit Flies: Drosophila Melanogaster and Drosophila Hydei are readily available at pet stores. D. Hydei are larger and are a good option if your frog likes fruit flies.
- Dubia Roaches: These are excellent feeders and can be gut-loaded like crickets.
Supplementation
Supplements are crucial for maintaining the health of Gray Tree Frogs and preventing diseases. Josh's Frogs offers a bundle specifically for tree frogs, including instructions on how to use the supplements.
Feeding Techniques
Tong feeding can be used to encourage frogs to accept a variety of feeders, such as dubia roaches. Wiggling the feeder can entice them to strike.
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Feeders to Avoid
- Moss: This poses an impaction risk.
- Sand and Small Pebbles: These can cause impaction if ingested.
Handling
Gray Tree Frogs have a toxin in their legs that can be harmful to other amphibians. Caution should be exercised when housing them with other species. While some keepers have successfully housed them with other animals, it's essential to monitor for any adverse reactions.
Gray Tree Frogs are intelligent and can learn from experience. They have been known to recognize poisonous substances by color or by experiencing negative effects after ingestion.
Handling should be minimized to protect the frog's skin. If handling is necessary, use non-powdered latex gloves.
Color Change and Camouflage
The gray tree frog's color changes in response to its environment and activities, and can range from green to gray or brown. The upper surface of the body has a blotchy pattern that resembles lichen and helps it blend in with tree bark. These frogs have a white spot beneath each eye and a dark stripe from the rear of the eyes to the front of the legs. The upper surfaces of the legs feature a dark, banded pattern, which contrasts starkly with the bright yellow or orange undersides of the legs. Scientists believe the bright coloration serves as a warning for predators not to attack.
Breeding
Breeding season runs from April to August. Males will gather in trees and bushes next to breeding ponds and swamps and begin calling. The male will aggressively defend its territory from intruders. The female selects a mate based on its call and lays her eggs on the surface of shallow water in ponds or swamps. She may also lay her eggs in standing water in tire ruts, vernal pools or even swimming pools. The eggs are attached to vegetation to keep them from floating away. The female lays as many as 2000 eggs in groups of 10-40. Tadpoles usually hatch after three to seven days, depending on the water temperature. Tadpole development depends on water temperature with metamorphosis typically occurring in 45 to 65 days.