Cuban Tree Frog Care Guide

Cuban Tree Frog Care Guide: Habitat, Diet & Temperatures

Cuban Tree Frogs (Osteopilus septentrionalis) are large, hardy, and adaptable amphibians known for their curious nature, climbing ability, and unique appearance. With the right habitat setup and consistent care, these frogs can thrive in a home terrarium and live up to 5–10 years.

In this care guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to provide a healthy environment for your Cuban Tree Frog — including enclosure setup, temperature and humidity ranges, feeding routines, and more.

Enclosure & Habitat

Tank Size & Orientation
Cuban Tree Frogs are strong climbers and require a vertically oriented tank:

  • Minimum tank size: 20 gallons for 1–2 frogs

  • Recommended dimensions: 18”L × 18”W × 24”H or larger

  • Use a secure screen top for ventilation and to prevent escapes

Substrate
Choose a substrate that retains moisture and supports humidity:

  • Coconut coir (Eco Earth)

  • Sphagnum moss

  • Orchid bark

  • Leaf litter (for natural setups)

For bioactive enclosures, include a drainage layer and live plants to maintain stability and cleanliness.

Enclosure Decor

  • Vertical climbing branches and cork bark

  • Vines (live or artificial)

  • Live plants like pothos, bromeliads, or philodendron

  • Multiple hiding spots using logs or leaf clusters

Lighting & Day/Night Cycle

Cuban Tree Frogs are nocturnal and do not require intense lighting.

  • Provide a 12-hour light/dark cycle using a timer

  • UVB lighting is optional but may benefit long-term health and plant growth (use a low-intensity 2.0–5.0 UVB bulb)

  • Keep lighting soft and avoid harsh spotlights

Temperature & Humidity

Temperature Range

  • Day: 78°F – 88°F

  • Night: 70°F – 75°F

Use a digital thermometer to monitor ambient temps. A ceramic heat emitter or low-wattage heat bulb may be necessary in cooler environments.

Humidity

  • Maintain relative humidity between 70%–90%

  • Mist the enclosure 1–2 times daily using dechlorinated or spring water

  • Use a hygrometer to track humidity

  • A shallow water dish with clean, dechlorinated water should be available at all times

Feeding & Nutrition

Cuban Tree Frogs are active insectivores that thrive on a varied diet of live prey.

Staple Feeder Insects

  • Gut-loaded crickets

  • Dubia roaches

  • Large mealworms

  • Superworms (in moderation)

  • Waxworms and hornworms (treats only)

Feeding Frequency

  • Juveniles: Daily (4–6 small insects)

  • Adults: Every 2–3 days (3–5 medium to large insects)

  • Offer prey roughly the size of the frog’s head

Supplements
To ensure proper nutrition, dust feeder insects before offering:

  • Calcium without D3: 2–3× per week

  • Calcium with D3: 1× per week

  • Multivitamin: 1× every 1–2 weeks

Always gut-load insects 24 hours before feeding with fresh produce or commercial gut-load products.

Hydration & Tank Cleanliness

  • Frogs absorb water through their skin, so hydration is vital

  • Mist daily to keep humidity high and skin healthy

  • Change water daily to prevent bacterial growth

  • Spot clean regularly and perform full substrate changes every 4–6 weeks

Handling Guidelines

  • Minimize handling — Cuban Tree Frogs have sensitive, absorbent skin

  • If necessary, handle with clean, wet hands or nitrile gloves

  • Always wash hands before and after to protect both you and the frog

Fun Facts

  • Cuban Tree Frogs can reach up to 5 inches in length

  • They can vary in color: green, gray, brown, or cream

  • Their large toepads and strong legs make them excellent climbers

  • They often change color depending on mood, environment, and light exposure

Final Tips for Success

  • Maintain proper humidity with daily misting and live plants

  • Provide vertical space and plenty of cover

  • Keep temperatures consistent throughout the day and night

  • Avoid overfeeding high-fat insects like waxworms

  • Use a quality calcium and vitamin supplement routine

  • Limit handling to avoid skin irritation or stress

Looking for Tree Frogs?

At LiveAquaponics, we offer a selection of healthy live frogs, including Green Tree Frogs and other popular species. All our frogs are captive-raised in Florida and shipped with care and a live arrival guarantee.

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