Full Grown White's Tree Frog Guide
The White's tree frog is a beautiful arboreal frog native to eastern Australia. As frog owners welcome their little frogs into adulthood, they may have questions about what to expect as their frogs fully mature.
This guide covers everything you need to know about caring for a fully grown White's tree frog.
About the White's Tree Frog
Scientific name: Litoria caerulea
The White's tree frog is found wild throughout eastern Australia. It naturally lives high up in trees and bushes, spending its days basking in the sun and its nights hunting for insects.
Its distinctive bright green or blue coloration helps it blend into tree branches for camouflage.
Size at Full Growth
On average, a fully grown male White's tree frog reaches 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) in length from snout to vent. Females tend to be slightly larger at 2.5-3.5 inches (6.5-9 cm) long. Their body height is generally 1-1.5 inches (2.5-4 cm).
Weight at Full Growth
The average weight for a fully grown male is 20-30 grams. Females can weigh 25-40 grams at full size.
Appearance at Full Growth
As they mature, White's tree frogs develop striking coloration and patterning.
Males take on vibrant shades of sky blue or grass green, while females lean more toward muted olive, greyish-green, or brown tones.
Spatterings of small black or white flecks cover their skin. Their large eyes help them spot prey and potential mates.
Personality at Full Growth
Adult White's tree frogs tend to be more bold and territorial than juveniles. Males in particular can become aggressive during breeding season as they compete for mates.
Outside of breeding periods, fully grown frogs still enjoy basking but may be shy of frequent handling by humans.
Price
You can expect to pay $20-50 for an adult White's tree frog, depending on its size, color morph, and availability from your local pet store or breeder.
Food/Feeding
In the wild, adult frogs prey on insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates.
In captivity, a variety should be offered including cricket, mealworms, waxworms, and superworms.
Feed 1-2 times per week and provide a shallow water dish for hydration.
Lifespan
White's tree frogs can live 5-10 years in captivity with proper care. Their lifespan in the wild is generally shorter at 2-5 years.
Health at Full Growth
Monitor adults weekly for signs of illness like weight loss, lethargy, or skin abnormalities. Provide opportunities to soak in shallow warm water 1-2 times per week to keep their skin moist.
Care and Nutritional Needs at Full Growth
House adults individually or in same-sex pairs in at least a 20 gallon enclosure with branches for climbing.
Maintain temperatures around 70-80°F with access to a basking area of 80-85°F.
Mist the enclosure 2-3 times daily and fill a water dish large enough for soaking.
Feed a varied diet and supplement with calcium and vitamins.
Costing
Expect to spend $50-100 initially on the frog, enclosure, lighting, heating, decor, and nutritional supplements. Ongoing costs average $20-30 per month for feeder insects and general care items.
Possible Behavioral Changes of a Fully Grown Frog
As sexual maturity hits between 9-12 months of age, adult males transition from their juvenile coloration and take on breeding colors like bright blues. During mating season, territorial behavior may emerge as males call and challenge each other.
Outside of breeding periods, fully grown frogs tend to be more selective in choosing mates and basking spots.
Notable Characteristics of a Fully Grown Frog
- Vibrant blue, green, or brown coloration depending on sex
- Robust body size up to 3-3.5 inches long
- Defined muscular legs for jumping
- Strong territorial and mating behaviors from males
- Keen vision and striking dark eyes
Suitability as Pets
While requiring an intermediate level of care, White's tree frogs can make engaging pets for frog enthusiasts when provided the right habitat. Their arboreal lifestyle and beautiful colors make them a joy to observe. With proper nutrition, lighting/heating, and occasional handling, fully grown frogs can thrive for many years in captivity.
I hope this guide has answered your questions about caring for a White's tree frog through adulthood. Their changing needs as they mature require adjustments to their environment and care. With the right setup and attention to their behaviors, you can keep your fully grown frog happy and healthy for years to come as a pet.
