Frogs come in a wide variety of different species, and each has its own requirement for temperature, humidity level and general environment.  It is, therefore, extremely important that you research the type of frog you have purchased or are considering purchasing.  Providing an environment for your frog that is as close as possible to its natural environment will make for a happier and healthier frog.

Husbandry

Frogs prefer a moist terrarium/aquarium.  There are four basic types of enclosures:

1. Arboreal
2. Terrestrial
3. Semi aquatic
4. Aquatic

Your enclosure should have the following features:

• Security (to prevent the frog from escaping)
• Moisture (Not too warm.  You can raise the moisture level by regularly spraying with water.)
• An environment replicating the natural environment of the species (Climbers need a tall terrarium with branches.  Ground dwellers need a larger surface area)
• Frogs love, and need, hiding places
• Temperature should be 18-26 deg C (However, this can vary with different species)
• Tubular fluorescent lamps for the plants
• Ventilation
• Basking sites/rocks
• Pool (Clean bottled water in a dish large enough for the frog to completely submerge itself.  Frogs don’t drink water; they absorb it through their skin.)

Diet

Adult frogs are carnivores.  They feed on insects/crickets.  Small frogs should be fed every 1-2 days.  Large frogs can be fed once or twice a week.

Frogs swallow their food whole with limited, or no, chewing, so feeding the correct size of crickets/insects is important.  Provide food that will easily fit in your frog’s mouth, ie:

• Fruit flies
• Termites
• Crickets
• Mealworms

Do not feed more crickets than your frog will eat at once. (Crickets are ravenous feeders, and if allowed, will eat a hole in your frog.)

Remember to sprinkle the food with a vitamin and mineral supplement dust.

Aquatic species may have:

• Earthworms
• Fish
• Frozen food

Hygiene

Daily cleaning of your frog’s tank is needed.

Always remove any dead or leftover food, and always remove faeces to prevent any associated parasites.

Warnings

1. Do not use harsh chemicals around your frog’s tank.
2. Do not use tap water for your frog (If you do, then also use a pet-store bought chlorine remover, or distil the water yourself.).
3. For your own health, and your frog’s health, always wash your hands before and after handling your pet frog.