Caring for your Chubby Frog
Chubby Frog
(Kaloula pulchra)
Basic Information:
The Chubby Frog, also known as the Asian Painted Frog or Banded Bullfrog, is a stout, burrowing amphibian native to Southeast Asia, where it inhabits humid forests, rice fields, suburban gardens, and temporary pools during the rainy season. These frogs are known for their rounded bodies, endearing “grumpy” facial expressions, and ability to inflate themselves when threatened. Adults typically reach 2–3 inches in length and are primarily nocturnal, spending most of the day hidden under leaf litter or buried in the substrate.
Lifespan:
Up to 10 years in captivity with proper care
Sexing:
Sexing can be difficult.
Males tend to be slightly smaller with darker throats and produce calls during the breeding season.
Females are generally larger and rounder.
Because visual differences are subtle, sexing younger frogs is not always reliable.
Enclosure:
Juveniles: 10-gallon terrarium (minimum).
Adults: 20-gallon long terrarium for a group of 2–3 frogs.
Provide a horizontal enclosure with plenty of hiding spaces and deep substrate for burrowing.
Substrate:
Use a moist, loose substrate such as:
Coconut fiber
Organic soil
A soil/sand mix
Provide 3–4 inches of depth to allow natural burrowing behavior.
Lighting & Temperature:
Basking: Not required.
Ambient Temperature: 75–82°F
Cool Side: 70–74°F
UVB Lighting: Optional but beneficial; use a low-output 2.0 or 5.0 UVB for a 10–12 hour cycl
Humidity:
Maintain 60–80% humidity with daily misting. Provide adequate ventilation to avoid stagnant air. A large water bowl also helps maintain humidity.
Food:
Chubby Frogs are insectivores. Feed:
Crickets
Dubia roaches
Flightless fruit flies (for juveniles)
Mealworms or waxworms occasionally
Adults typically eat 3–4 times per week. Dust feeder insects with calcium and vitamins.
Water:
Provide a wide, shallow water dish for soaking. Replace water daily with dechlorinated or treated tap water.
Chubby Frogs are hardy, amusing, and easy to care for, making them excellent pets for new amphibian keepers. Their expressive faces, simple enclosure needs, and calm behavior make them a fun and charming addition to any collection.
Available in Frederick, Maryland:
Chubby Frogs may be available now at Critters, Reptiles & Exotics in Frederick County, Maryland! Visit us for expert advice and the proper supplies to get your new amphibian set up — because there’s always a new adventure waiting at Critters, Reptiles & Exotics!