Red eyed tree frogs are one of the most popular pet frogs kept by hobbyists due to their stunning and unique appearance. Their bright green bodies, vibrant red eyes, blue striped sides, and orange feet make them truly captivating to observe. But beyond just looks, are these colorful amphibians actually good pets to keep?
Reasons Why Red Eyed Tree Frogs Make Great Pets
There are several key reasons why red eyed tree frogs can make fantastic pets with the right setup and care. Some of the main benefits include:
- Visually Appealing – Their beautiful and vivid coloration is unmatched in the frog world. Just watching their eyes peer out from thick vegetation can be highly enjoyable.
- Interesting Behaviors – They have intriguing behaviors to watch like climbing, hunting insects, and even changing color. Their motions are surprisingly graceful and agile.
- Unique Vocalizations – The males make a variety of croaking and chuckling calls, especially when trying to attract a mate. These vocalizations can be quite charming and amusing to listen to.
- Low Maintenance – Compared to other exotic pets, these frogs are relatively simple to care for as long as their habitat is set up properly. This makes them more beginner friendly.
- Long Lived – With proper care, red eyed tree frogs can live 5 years or longer in captivity allowing plenty of time to appreciate them as pets.
Habitat and Care Requirements
While red eyed tree frogs are easier to keep than many exotic species, they do still have particular habitat and care requirements in order to thrive that need to be met. These include: Enclosure – A minimum of a 20 gallon tall glass tank or enclosure, with more space always better. Lots of climbing branches and broad-leafed plants should be provided. Heat & Light – Daytime temperatures around 75-80°F. Access to UVB lighting. Night temperatures can be allowed to drop to around 65-70°F. Humidity – High humidity levels are essential, between 70-100%. This can be achieved with substrates like sphagnum moss and a fogger or misting system. Feeding – Insectivores that should be fed a variety of gutloaded insects 2-3 times a week such as crickets, flies, moths, worms. Supplements – Dust food items with calcium and vitamin D3 supplements 1-2 times weekly. With the proper setup that mimics their natural rainforest environment, red eyed tree frogs do quite well in captivity. Be sure to do plenty of research beforehand on constructing a vivarium habitat for these arboreal, tropical frogs.
Are Red Eyed Tree Frogs the Right Pet Frog For You?
While red eyed tree frogs have many positive attributes, they may not be the ideal pet for everyone. Here are some key considerations in deciding if they are a good match before acquiring one:
- Can you provide the proper rainforest-like habitat and conditions they require?
- Are you prepared to feed them live insects regularly?
- Do you have access to an exotic vet if health issues arise?
- Are other members of the household comfortable with caring for frogs?
If you can meet all their specific needs and want a display pet that is interactive and pleasing to observe, red eyed tree frogs will likely make an excellent addition to your home. With the right dedication and care, these gorgeous frogs can thrive and delight their owners for many years with their jewel-toned colors and lively behaviors.
Conclusion
In summary, red eyed tree frogs do make good pets for the right owners willing to provide their specialized care. Their stunning beauty, intriguing behaviors and personalities, and relatively manageable care levels contribute to them being suitable display pets. Just be certain you can recreate the tropical environment they need and feed them appropriately. With the proper habitat setup and owner commitment, red eyed tree frogs can be rewarding exotic pets. If you want a pet frog that literally pops with color, red eyed tree frogs are easily one of the top choices out there.
