Litoria caerulea

Species Overview

White’s Tree Frogs are hardy, arboreal amphibians native to Australia and New Guinea. Known for their adaptability and calm disposition, they are ideal for both novice and experienced amphibian keepers. Their thick, waxy skin helps them retain moisture in drier environments, and their large size and gentle temperament make them a popular display species.

• Care Level: Beginner to Intermediate

• Adult Size: 3–5 inches (females typically larger)

• Average Lifespan: 10–20 years in captivity

• Activity Pattern: Nocturnal

• Temperament: Docile, relatively tolerant of occasional handling

Enclosure Setup

White’s Tree Frogs thrive in vertically oriented enclosures with high humidity and good airflow. A bioactive setup is ideal for long-term health and environmental enrichment.

• Minimum Enclosure Size: 18″ x 18″ x 24″ for 1–2 adults

• Terrarium Type: Front-opening glass terrarium with mesh ventilation

• Substrate: Moisture-retentive mix such as coco fiber, sphagnum moss, or a bioactive soil layer over LECA

• Structural Elements: Branches, cork tubes, and large-leafed live plants for climbing and hiding

• Plant Suggestions: Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), bromeliads, Majesty Palm, snake plant (Sansevieria)

• Water Source: Shallow dish with dechlorinated water; avoid deep bowls to prevent drowning

Environmental Parameters

• Daytime Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)

• Nighttime Temperature: 65–75°F (18–24°C)

• Humidity: 50–70%; mist lightly once or twice daily

• Lighting: Low to moderate UVB (5.0) is beneficial but optional; maintain a 12-hour light/dark cycle

Diet and Feeding

White’s Tree Frogs are opportunistic insectivores that benefit from a varied, well-supplemented diet.

• Primary Food Items: Gut-loaded crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms; offer waxworms or silkworms as treats

• Feeding Frequency: Juveniles—daily; Adults—every 2–3 days

• Supplements: Calcium with D3 twice per week; multivitamin once per week

• Note: Monitor food intake to prevent obesity, a common health issue in captive frogs

Maintenance and Hygiene

• Daily: Remove uneaten insects and waste; refresh water dish

• Weekly: Wipe down glass and décor

• Monthly: Replace substrate or maintain bioactive layers

• Water Quality: Use only dechlorinated or spring water

Behavior and Handling

• Behavior: Nocturnal, semi-arboreal, calm climbers

• Handling: Minimal handling recommended; always wash hands before and after contact

• Social Housing: Can be kept alone or in groups if enclosure is large and well-structured

Breeding Information

• Sexing: Males are smaller with dark throats and a croaking call; females are larger and more robust

• Breeding Setup: Simulate a rainy season with higher humidity and slight temperature drops

• Reproduction: Females lay eggs near water; raise tadpoles in clean, well-oxygenated aquatic setups

Health Considerations

• Common Issues:

  • Fungal infections (e.g. chytrid)

  • Obesity from overfeeding

  • Bacterial infections from poor hygiene

• Veterinary Care: Seek exotic animal vets for any signs of illness

Recommended Supplies

• Vertical glass terrarium (18″x18″x24″ or larger)

• Digital thermometer and hygrometer

• Coco fiber, sphagnum moss, or bioactive substrate

• Live plants: pothos, bromeliads, Majesty Palm

• Climbing décor: cork bark, branches

• Shallow water dish with dechlorinated water

• Low-level UVB lighting (optional)

• Calcium and vitamin supplements

• Spray bottle or automated misting system

Hunter’s Tip

Maximize vertical space with live vines like pothos. It enhances natural behavior, helps maintain humidity, and looks incredible in display tanks.

Hunter’s Picks

MistKing Misting System — Premium, programmable misting solution perfect for amphibians and bioactive enclosures
Reptizoo Mister (Budget Option) — Simple, effective, and affordable misting system for beginners
Zoo Med Repti Calcium with D3 — Reliable calcium supplement to support healthy bone development
Reptizoo Hygrometer & Thermometer Combo — Easy-to-read tools to track temp and humidity levels
Coconut Soil & Sphagnum Moss — Ideal substrate base for moisture retention and burrowing
Reptizoo Front-Opening Glass Terrarium — Durable, well-ventilated tank designed for amphibian needs

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