White’s Tree Frog

White’s Tree Frog

(Litoria caerulea)

Also called the Indonesian Dumpy Tree Frog, this species is native to Australia, New Guinea, and Indonesia. They're known for their chunky build, “smiling” expression, and friendly temperament, making them one of the most popular pet frogs. They are hardy, tolerant of a range of conditions, and great for beginner amphibian keepers.

Lifespan:

Up to 15–20 years in captivity with proper care.

Sexing:

Males are smaller with vocal sacs and may have dark nuptial pads (on thumbs); females are larger and rounder.

Enclosure:

• Minimum Size: 18” x 18” x 24” for 1–2 frogs Vertical space is important—include branches, cork bark, and foliage

Substrate:

• Moisture-retaining options such as coconut fiber, sphagnum moss, or bioactive setups

• Spot clean daily, deep clean monthly

• Avoid loose substrate ingestion by offering food in a dish or on tongs

Lighting & Temperature:

• Day Temp: 75–85°F

• Night Temp: 65–75°F

• Basking Spot: Optional, up to 88°F

• UVB Lighting: Optional but recommended (low output like 5.0 UVB)

Humidity:

Maintain 50–70% humidity

Mist once or twice daily

Provide good airflow to prevent respiratory issues

Food:

Insectivores—crickets, roaches, black soldier fly larvae, silkworms, occasional hornworms

Juveniles: daily

Adults: 2–3 times per week

Gut-load insects and use supplements

Water:

Shallow water dish with dechlorinated or spring water

Change daily—frogs soak and absorb water through their skin

Do not use tap water without a conditioner

Supplementation:

• Calcium without D3: 2–3x/week
  Calcium with D3: 1x/week

• Multivitamin: 1x every 1–2 weeks

These frogs are nicknamed “Dumpy” frogs because of a fatty ridge above their eyes that gives them a pudgy, sleepy appearance—and they’re known to smile when relaxed!