Red-eyed tree frogs (Agalychnis callidryas) are popular amphibians known for their striking appearance. For those kept in a home environment, understanding and providing a balanced diet is fundamental for their health and longevity.
Wild Diet
In their natural rainforest habitats across Central and South America, red-eyed tree frogs are nocturnal carnivores. They primarily hunt at night, preying on a variety of insects and other small invertebrates. Their diet largely consists of common rainforest insects like crickets, moths, flies, and grasshoppers. Occasionally, they may also consume smaller frogs.
Appropriate Captive Foods
For red-eyed tree frogs in human care, a varied diet of commercially available feeder insects is recommended. Crickets are a common staple, providing a good protein source. Other suitable insects include dubia roaches, small hornworms, and silkworms. Mealworms can be offered in moderation due to their harder exoskeletons. Waxworms are high in fat and should be given only as occasional treats.
It is important to “gut-load” all feeder insects before offering them to the frog. This involves feeding the insects a nutritious diet for 24-48 hours, ensuring they pass on beneficial nutrients. Gut-loading can use commercial diets or fresh vegetables like carrots and leafy greens.
Feeding Guidelines
The frequency of feeding red-eyed tree frogs depends on their age. Juvenile frogs, which are actively growing, should be fed daily. Adult frogs require feeding every two to three days. Feeder insects should be no larger than the width of the frog’s head to prevent choking or impaction.
Food items can be offered using feeding tongs or by releasing them into the enclosure at night when frogs are most active. Supplementation of feeder insects is important for captive frogs. Insects should be dusted with a calcium supplement containing vitamin D3, which aids calcium absorption. A multivitamin supplement designed for amphibians should also be used periodically. Juveniles may need calcium and vitamin D3 daily, while adults can receive it two to three times a week, with a multivitamin once weekly.
Harmful Foods
Certain food items should never be given to red-eyed tree frogs due to potential harm. Wild-caught insects should be avoided entirely, as they may carry pesticides, parasites, or diseases detrimental to the frog’s health. Red-eyed tree frogs are insectivores, meaning their digestive systems are adapted to process insects. Therefore, human foods, fruits, or vegetables are inappropriate and cannot be digested.