Full Grown Amazon Milk Frog: Size, Appearance, Price & More
The Amazon milk frog is one of the most popular pet frogs due to its small size and docile temperament. However, caring for a full grown Amazon milk frog requires special knowledge and preparations.
This guide covers everything you need to know about a mature Amazon milk frog's size, diet, habitat requirements, health concerns, behavior and more.
Size at Full Growth
On average, a fully grown Amazon milk frog will reach lengths of 1.5-2 inches (4-5 cm) from head to rear. Their height at maturity is usually around 1 inch (2.5 cm). Females tend to be slightly larger than males.
Weight at Full Growth
A mature Amazon milk frog weighs approximately 0.4-0.7 ounces (12-20 grams). Their weight will vary depending on overall size and individual Frog.
Appearance at Full Growth
At maturity, Amazon milk frogs develop vibrant colors and markings. Their background color is usually bright green with darker green or black flecks. Males develop smaller bodies and thicker pads on their thumbs to aid in amplexus during breeding.
Notable Physical Features
- Oval body shape
- Bulging eyes with horizontal pupils
- Short legs for a semi-arboreal lifestyle
- Toe pads aid in climbing
- Skin is smooth and moist
Personality at Full Growth
Even as adults, Amazon milk frogs generally remain docile pets. However, their activity levels and temperaments may change slightly with maturity:
- More confident and assertive than juveniles
- Less likely to hide or feel stressed
- More active hunters and territorial of space
- Males can be combative during breeding season
Positive handling and an enriched environment help keep adult personalities calm and friendly.
Price of a Full Grown Frog
Expect to pay $25-50 for a mature Amazon milk frog, depending on age, breeder reputation, and local market factors. Full grown frogs command higher prices than juveniles due to increased care experience needed.
Food and Feeding
Diet
The diet of adult Amazon milk frogs should consist of:
- Crickets, dubia roaches (optimal size is 1/2 the length of the frog)
- Waxworms and mealworms (occasional treat only)
- Houseflies and fruit flies (additional protein and activity)
Feeding Schedule
Mature Amazon milk frogs have higher metabolism and energy needs. Feed them:
- 3-5 times per week for 6-10 prey items each feeding
- Ensure prey is gutloaded with nutrients before feeding
- Remove any uneaten prey after 2 hours
Lifespan
With excellent care, Amazon milk frogs can live 5-7 years in captivity. High quality enclosures, a varied diet and preventative healthcare can maximize their lifespan potential.
Health at Full Growth
Some potential health issues for mature Amazon milk frogs:
- Metabolic bone disease from poor nutrition or lighting
- Parasites such as pinworms or nematodes
- Fungal or bacterial infections from wounds or unsuitable conditions
- Stress-related illnesses like impaction or anorexia
It's important to monitor weight, activity levels and address any health issues promptly with a vet.
Care and Nutrition Needs
Habitat Requirements
Adult Amazon milk frogs need:
- 10-20 gal tank or larger (they are more territorial)
- Glass or mesh lid with secure fastenings
- Warm corner temp 80-85°F, cool side 75-80°F
- Moderate to high humidity 70-85%
- Hides, climbing plants, branches for activity
- shallow water bowl for soaking
- 5-7 in substrate like coco fiber or soil mix
Cleaning and Maintenance
Fully grown frogs are messier eaters - clean tank 1-2 times weekly and replace water as needed.
Cost of Care
Expect the following average monthly costs for caring for an adult Amazon milk frog:
- $15-30 - Food (crickets, dubia, flies, etc.) depending on supplier
- $10-15 - Bedding, decor and filter media replacements
- $5-10 - Supplemental heating and lighting equipment if needed
- $15-30 - Veterinary costs for annual wellness exams and treatment if ill
Costs may be slightly higher for larger setups housing multiple adult frogs.
Possible Behavioral Changes
Some differences in behavior you may see in mature Amazon milk frogs:
- More bold and likely to explore full enclosure
- Vocalize (croak) more often especially males during breeding
- Males may display dominance behavior towards other males
- Increased hunting/predatory instincts towards prey items
- Females carry eggs during breeding cycle
Notable Characteristics
Key traits that distinguish fully grown Amazon milk frogs include:
- Large, prominent eyes for superior vision
- Thicker skin that feels smooth like silk instead of soft juvenile skin
- Defined muscle tone and body shape compared to younger frogs
- More established territorial patterns in established tank
- Distinct croaking/calling from males seeking mates
- Vibrant coloration reaches its peak intensity
