Cuban Tree Frog
Species Description

The Cuban Tree Frog (Osteopilus septentrionalis) derives its common name from its origin in Cuba, though it's also native to the Bahamas and Cayman Islands. The species name "septentrionalis" means "northern," referring to its Caribbean distribution. This species is often simply called the "Cuban Treefrog" (one word) in scientific literature, though both spellings are acceptable. In Florida, where it has become a notorious invasive species, it's sometimes derisively referred to as the "invasive giant" or "pest frog" due to its destructive ecological impact.

This species belongs to the family Hylidae (tree frogs) and is the only member of the genus Osteopilus found outside its native range. The genus name comes from Greek words meaning "bone" and "armor," referring to the species' distinctively enlarged toe pads and robust build compared to other tree frogs. Cuban Tree Frogs are significantly larger than most tree frog species, with females reaching impressive sizes that dwarf native North American tree frogs.

There are no recognized subspecies of Osteopilus septentrionalis, though populations in different regions show some variation in coloration and size. The species has been introduced to Florida, presumably through ornamental plant shipments, and has spread throughout the southern United States. Its invasive status has made it one of the most studied and controversial amphibians in herpetology, representing both the adaptability of the species and the dangers of biological invasion. The Cuban Tree Frog's common name is universally recognized, making identification straightforward for both hobbyists and professionals concerned with invasive species management.

Cuban Tree Frogs are the largest tree frogs in North America, with females reaching 3 to 5.5 inches in length, significantly larger than males who typically reach 2 to 4 inches. Their robust, heavy-bodied build distinguishes them from more delicate tree frog species. Weight varies considerably based on size and sex, with large females reaching 2 ounces or more. Their substantial size allows them to prey on much larger food items than other tree frogs, including smaller frogs and even small snakes.

The most distinctive feature of Cuban Tree Frogs is their enormous toe pads—proportionally the largest of any tree frog species. These sticky, disk-like pads enable them to climb smooth vertical surfaces including glass, plastic, and even wet tiles. The skin has a slightly warty texture, more granular than typical tree frogs, and lacks the smooth appearance of green tree frogs. Their skin secretes a mildly toxic mucus that causes burning and irritation in humans, particularly affecting eyes and mucous membranes.

Coloration is highly variable and changes based on temperature, humidity, and mood. Most specimens display some shade of tan, gray, brown, or bronze, though some individuals show olive or greenish tones. Many have darker mottling, spots, or bands across their backs that may form irregular patterns. The ventral surface is typically cream to yellowish-white. Under stress or in cooler temperatures, they can appear quite dark, almost charcoal gray, while comfortable frogs in warm conditions often display lighter coloration. This color-changing ability, while not as dramatic as chameleons, helps with camouflage.

Sexual dimorphism is pronounced, with females substantially larger than males. Males develop nuptial pads (dark, roughened areas) on their thumbs during breeding season. Males also have expandable vocal sacs that appear as loose skin on the throat. The eyes are large and prominent with horizontal pupils, typical of tree frogs. Cuban Tree Frogs can be distinguished from native tree frogs by their larger size, granular skin texture, proportionally larger toe pads, and the presence of a visible bone ridge between their eyes that forms a distinct "V" shape when viewed from above—a diagnostic feature unique to this species among North American tree frogs.

Cuban Tree Frogs exhibit bold, opportunistic behavior that distinguishes them from more timid tree frog species. They show little fear of humans and will readily expose themselves in well-lit areas when hunting. This boldness contributes to their invasive success, as they're willing to exploit human-modified environments that more sensitive species avoid. In captivity, they quickly learn to associate human presence with feeding opportunities and will often position themselves prominently when keepers approach.

These are primarily nocturnal hunters that become highly active after dark. They employ a sit-and-wait hunting strategy, perching on elevated surfaces and dropping onto prey that passes below. Their predatory behavior is remarkably aggressive—they'll attempt to eat prey items that seem impossibly large, sometimes choking on oversized food. Cuban Tree Frogs are known to practice cannibalism, with larger individuals readily consuming smaller conspecifics. This aggressive feeding behavior necessitates careful size matching when housing multiple individuals.

Male Cuban Tree Frogs are extremely vocal during breeding season, producing loud, raspy, snore-like calls that carry considerable distances. In Florida neighborhoods, their calls can become a serious noise nuisance, particularly when multiple males chorus together. The call is distinctly unpleasant compared to the melodious calls of many native tree frogs—a harsh, nasal "braaaaack" that repeats continuously. Males will call from elevated perches near water sources, sometimes continuing for hours. In captivity, males may call year-round if conditions remain warm and humid.

Defensive behaviors include flattening their bodies to appear larger, secreting toxic mucus, and producing distress calls when grabbed. Unlike more docile tree frogs, Cuban Tree Frogs may attempt to bite when threatened, though their teeth are small and bites rarely break human skin. When handled, they often void their bladders, and their skin secretions can cause immediate burning and irritation. These defensive mechanisms, combined with their toxic skin, provide effective protection against most predators in their native range.

Social structure is largely solitary outside breeding season, with individuals maintaining loose territories around preferred hunting sites. However, multiple individuals may aggregate around particularly rich food sources like exterior lights. During breeding season, males compete aggressively for calling sites and access to females. Amplexus (mating embrace) can last several hours, with the pair descending to water to lay eggs. In captivity, Cuban Tree Frogs show minimal social behavior and should be housed individually or in carefully size-matched groups. Their opportunistic nature, aggressive feeding, bold behavior, and adaptability make them fascinating captives but also exemplify the traits that enable successful biological invasions.

Cuban Tree Frogs require vertical enclosures that provide climbing opportunities and height, as they're strongly arboreal. A 20-gallon vertical terrarium (18x18x24 inches) adequately houses a single adult, while 30-40 gallon vertical enclosures better accommodate pairs or trios. Height is more important than floor space—aim for at least 24 inches of vertical climbing room. However, due to their invasive status, many herpetologists discourage keeping this species at all, and escape prevention must be absolute priority.

Enclosure security is critical given their invasive potential. Use a locking screen lid or tight-fitting glass top with no gaps larger than the smallest frog's head. Cuban Tree Frogs are notorious escape artists that can squeeze through surprisingly small openings. Any escaped specimen must be recaptured immediately and never released outdoors. In states where Cuban Tree Frogs are established invasive species, releasing them is both illegal and ecologically destructive. Some jurisdictions prohibit keeping this species entirely.

Substrate options include coconut coir, sphagnum moss, or a bioactive mix with springtails and isopods. Substrate should hold moisture well to maintain humidity but allow drainage to prevent standing water. Layer 2-3 inches of substrate across the bottom. Some keepers prefer paper towel substrate for easier cleaning and monitoring, though this provides less naturalistic aesthetics. Avoid gravel, sand, or any substrate with impaction risk, as Cuban Tree Frogs may ingest substrate while feeding.

Furnishings should include multiple climbing branches, cork bark tubes, live or artificial plants, and broad leaves for perching. Cuban Tree Frogs spend most of their time elevated, so focus on vertical structure. Provide several hiding spots at different heights—bamboo tubes, cork bark half-rounds, and dense foliage work well. Include horizontal perching sites where frogs can sit in hunting positions. Live plants like pothos, philodendron, and bromeliads create naturalistic environments and help maintain humidity, though artificial plants serve functionally similar roles with less maintenance.

Temperature requirements are minimal, as Cuban Tree Frogs thrive at room temperature. Maintain ambient temperatures between 72-82°F, with nighttime drops acceptable down to the mid-60s. They don't require basking spots or supplemental heating in most homes. If necessary, use low-wattage heat bulbs or ceramic heat emitters to maintain temperature, always with thermostatic control. Avoid heat mats with Cuban Tree Frogs, as they're arboreal and won't benefit from bottom heat.

Lighting should mimic natural day-night cycles with 10-12 hours of light daily. Cuban Tree Frogs don't require UVB lighting, though low-level UVB may benefit overall health if provided. Standard LED or fluorescent bulbs provide adequate illumination. Avoid overly bright lighting, as these are nocturnal animals that prefer subdued conditions during the day. Red or blue night-viewing lights allow observation of nocturnal activity without disturbing the frogs.

Humidity should remain between 60-80%, achievable through daily misting and a large water dish. Mist the enclosure thoroughly once or twice daily, allowing it to dry slightly between mistings to prevent fungal growth. Provide a shallow water dish large enough for the frog to soak—change water daily, as frogs often defecate in water. In dry climates, automatic misting systems or ultrasonic foggers help maintain consistent humidity. Monitor with a digital hygrometer and adjust misting frequency based on readings. Cuban Tree Frogs tolerate humidity fluctuations better than many tropical species but still require consistent moisture for proper skin health and shedding.

Cuban Tree Frogs are voracious carnivores with impressive appetites that will consume almost any animal prey they can physically swallow. In the wild, their diet includes insects, spiders, smaller frogs (including other Cuban Tree Frogs), small lizards, snails, and even small snakes. This opportunistic feeding strategy contributes to their success as invasive predators. Their large mouths and aggressive feeding response allow them to tackle prey items that would intimidate more conservative feeders.

In captivity, base the diet on appropriately-sized crickets, dubia roaches, and other commercially available feeder insects. Adult Cuban Tree Frogs readily consume medium to large crickets (1/2 to 3/4 inch), adult dubia roaches, superworms, hornworms, and silkworms. Juvenile frogs require smaller prey items like pinhead crickets, small roaches, and fruit flies. Vary prey types to provide nutritional diversity and prevent dietary deficiencies. These frogs show strong feeding responses to almost any moving prey.

Feeding frequency depends on age and size. Juvenile Cuban Tree Frogs should eat daily or every other day to support growth, consuming as much as they'll eat in 10-15 minutes. Adults can be fed every 2-3 days, receiving 3-5 large prey items per feeding. Monitor body condition closely, as Cuban Tree Frogs are prone to obesity from overfeeding. A healthy adult should have a slightly rounded body with no visible hip bones, but shouldn't appear balloon-like or have rolls of fat.

Supplement all feeder insects with calcium and vitamin D3 at every other feeding. Dust prey items by placing them in a bag or cup with supplement powder and shaking gently. Cuban Tree Frogs don't require UVB lighting for vitamin D3 synthesis if properly supplemented. Use a quality reptile/amphibian multivitamin once weekly to provide additional nutrients. Pregnant females may benefit from increased calcium supplementation.

Larger adult Cuban Tree Frogs can occasionally be offered pinky mice, though rodents should be rare treats rather than dietary staples due to high fat content. Feed appropriately-sized prey—items should be no wider than the distance between the frog's eyes. Cuban Tree Frogs have enormous appetites and will attempt to eat oversized prey, potentially leading to choking or impaction. Some individuals become so aggressive during feeding that they'll lunge at feeding tongs or even keeper's fingers.

Provide a shallow water dish at all times, as Cuban Tree Frogs absorb water through their skin and may soak regularly. Change water daily, as they often defecate in their water dishes. Unlike terrestrial amphibians, tree frogs don't typically drink from water dishes but instead absorb moisture from mist and their environment. Proper hydration is essential for healthy skin and successful shedding. Cuban Tree Frogs may show decreased appetite before shedding, which is normal and shouldn't cause concern unless feeding refusal extends beyond a week.

Cuban Tree Frogs are exceptionally hardy amphibians with robust immune systems that tolerate husbandry mistakes better than most frogs. Their success as invasive species reflects their resistance to disease and adaptability to poor conditions. However, they remain susceptible to several common amphibian health issues when kept in suboptimal conditions. Most health problems stem from improper humidity, poor water quality, nutritional deficiencies, or stress. Regular observation and prompt response to health changes prevent most serious issues. Cuban Tree Frogs can live 5-10 years with proper care, with some individuals reportedly exceeding 12 years.

Due to limited availability of amphibian veterinarians, prevention is far more practical than treatment. Most Cuban Tree Frog health issues result from easily corrected husbandry errors. Maintain clean conditions, provide proper supplementation, and monitor for early signs of problems. Despite their hardy nature, sick amphibians decline rapidly once illness becomes apparent, making early intervention critical for successful treatment outcomes.

Cuban Tree Frogs should be handled minimally due to their toxic skin secretions that cause burning, irritation, and allergic reactions in humans. Their skin mucus contains compounds that can cause intense burning sensations in eyes, nose, and mouth, and may trigger respiratory irritation in sensitive individuals. Some people develop contact dermatitis from repeated exposure. Always wear disposable gloves when handling Cuban Tree Frogs, or thoroughly wet hands before contact to protect both the frog and yourself.

When handling is necessary for enclosure maintenance or health checks, cup the frog gently in wet hands rather than grabbing it. Support the entire body, avoiding pressure on the abdomen or limbs. Cuban Tree Frogs are powerful jumpers that will attempt to leap from hands—work over a secure surface or inside the enclosure to prevent escape or injury from falls. Never squeeze or apply pressure, as their bones are delicate and amphibian skin is easily damaged. After handling, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water. Never touch your face, eyes, or mouth before washing.

Minimize handling sessions to essential situations only—transferring to temporary housing for cleaning, veterinary exams, or emergency relocations. Unlike reptiles that may benefit from regular handling, amphibians don't habituate to human contact and consistently experience handling as stressful. Their permeable skin absorbs chemicals from human hands, including salts, oils, lotions, and residues that can harm them. Unnecessary handling compromises immune function and increases disease susceptibility.

Cuban Tree Frogs shed their skin regularly, typically every few weeks, consuming the shed skin immediately after removing it. Healthy frogs complete the shedding process within 10-15 minutes. If a frog has difficulty removing shed skin (retained shed), increase humidity levels and provide a shallow soaking area. Never attempt to remove stuck shed manually, as this damages delicate skin. Consult an amphibian-experienced veterinarian if shedding problems persist despite humidity adjustments. Incomplete sheds indicate underlying health issues or suboptimal husbandry requiring investigation and correction.

Cuban Tree Frogs are suitable for beginner amphibian keepers from a care perspective, being hardy, adaptable, and easy to feed. However, serious ethical and legal considerations make them problematic as pets. Their status as destructive invasive species in much of the southern United States should weigh heavily in any decision to acquire them. Many herpetologists actively discourage keeping this species due to ecological concerns, and some jurisdictions prohibit their possession entirely.

Before acquiring Cuban Tree Frogs, research local and state regulations thoroughly. In Florida and other states where they're established invasive species, intentional release or escape is illegal and ecologically devastating. Some areas prohibit keeping them as pets to prevent further spread. Never release Cuban Tree Frogs outdoors under any circumstances. If you can no longer care for the animal, euthanasia may be the most responsible option to prevent invasive spread. Contact local wildlife authorities for guidance on humane euthanasia methods.

The financial commitment is minimal compared to many reptiles and amphibians. Initial setup costs run $100-200 for enclosure, equipment, and initial supplies. Ongoing costs include feeder insects ($10-20 monthly), supplements ($20 annually), and substrate replacement ($20-30 annually). Electricity costs for any necessary heating or lighting remain negligible. However, finding qualified amphibian veterinarians can be challenging and expensive, with exotic vet visits typically costing $75-150 for routine exams.

Cuban Tree Frogs aren't suitable for households with young children due to their toxic skin secretions. Children who touch the frogs and then rub their eyes or mouths may experience painful burning. Adults must supervise all interactions and ensure thorough handwashing afterward. The loud, unpleasant mating calls of males can disrupt household peace, particularly if the frog enclosure is kept in living areas. Some keepers find the raspy, snoring calls charming, while others find them intolerable.

Prospective keepers should honestly assess whether they're prepared for a 5-10 year commitment to an animal that provides minimal interaction and cannot be released if circumstances change. Cuban Tree Frogs are observation animals unsuited to handling, offering enjoyment primarily through watching natural behaviors. Their bold, active nature makes them more engaging than some shy amphibians, but they'll never become "interactive" pets. Consider whether supporting this species through captive breeding and keeping contributes to the invasive species problem or serves educational purposes that justify potential risks.