White's Tree Frog Care: Setup, Temperatures and Diet
Is a White's Tree Frog Right for You?
White's tree frogs are one of the hardiest and most relaxed pet frogs, which makes them a good first amphibian. They are night-active, often sitting quietly by day and climbing and calling in the evening. Males can be loud. They are pets to watch, not handle, and they live a long time: 20 years or more with good care.
Housing: Tall and Planted
LafeberVet suggests that one to four frogs can live in about a 20-gallon (75-liter) terrarium, and many keepers prefer a taller enclosure for climbing.
- Climbing: sturdy branches, cork and broad-leaved live or artificial plants.
- Floor: a moisture-holding substrate kept damp but not waterlogged, or paper towels during quarantine.
- Water: a large, shallow dish they can sit in, with dechlorinated water changed daily.
- Lid: secure and ventilated; tree frogs are good climbers.
- Groups: frogs of similar size can share; a large frog will eat a small one.
Heat, Light and Humidity
- Gradient: about 70–90°F (21–32°C), with a warm basking spot up to about 95°F (35°C).
- Night: can fall to about 65–70°F (18–21°C).
- Humidity: about 60–70%, with daily misting.
- Lighting: a day and night cycle with low-level UVB, which many keepers and vets now recommend for amphibians.
Use heat on a thermostat and avoid drying the enclosure out. These are typical ranges from a veterinary information sheet; check with your vet or a specialist keeper.
Setting Up a White's Tree Frog Terrarium
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A tall, front-opening terrarium of about 20 gallons (75 liters) or more is the base. A low-wattage heat source on a thermostat and a digital thermometer and hygrometer keep the climate right, and a low-level UVB tube covers lighting. Branches, plants, a large shallow water dish and a water conditioner finish the setup.
Diet and Feeding
White's tree frogs eat insects: crickets, roaches and worms, gut-loaded and sized to the frog. LafeberVet suggests feeding juveniles daily and adults two to three times a week, and dusting insects with a vitamin and mineral powder twice a week for juveniles and once a week for adults. They put on weight easily, so don't overfeed.
Handling and Hygiene
Amphibian skin is delicate and absorbs whatever is on your hands, so handle as little as possible. If you must, use wet, powder-free gloves or freshly rinsed hands with no soap or lotion residue. Wash your hands afterward; amphibians can carry salmonella.
Health: Preventive Care
Find a vet who treats amphibians before you buy. Clean, dechlorinated water, correct temperatures and a varied, dusted diet prevent most problems. Weigh now and then, and watch for weight gain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Handling and heat come up most.
Are White's tree frogs good for beginners?
Yes. They're among the hardiest pet frogs, calm and long-lived, though they're for watching more than handling.
How big a tank does a White's tree frog need?
LafeberVet suggests one to four frogs can live in about 20 gallons (75 liters). Taller enclosures give more climbing.
What temperature do White's tree frogs need?
A gradient of about 70–90°F (21–32°C) by day, with a warm spot up to about 95°F (35°C), dropping to about 65–70°F (18–21°C) at night.
Can I handle my White's tree frog?
As little as possible. Their skin is delicate. Use wet, powder-free gloves if you must, and wash your hands afterward.
How long do White's tree frogs live?
Often 20 years or more with good care.
Do White's tree frogs need tap water treated?
Yes. Use dechlorinated tap water, aged tap water or bottled spring water, changed daily.
Related Reading
- Pacman (horned) frogs: the sit-and-wait frog.
- Dart frogs: tiny, colorful and bioactive.
- Choosing a first reptile or amphibian: the full checklist.
These are typical care figures, not a health plan for your frog. If your frog stops eating, changes color or seems unwell, contact a vet who treats amphibians.