The frog commonly known as the “Dumpy Frog” is officially the White’s Tree Frog, scientifically named Litoria caerulea. This amphibian is one of the largest and most popular tree frog species kept as a pet worldwide, known for its docile temperament and long lifespan, which can exceed 16 years in captivity. It was first described in 1790 by English surgeon and naturalist John White, contributing to its formal common name. Its reputation as a hardy and relatively low-maintenance species makes it a favorite among enthusiasts.
Identifying the White’s Tree Frog
The nickname “Dumpy Frog” relates to this species’ distinct, stout, and robust physical structure, giving it a somewhat overweight appearance. They are characterized by a large head and a short, blunt snout. Adults typically reach 3 to 4.5 inches in length, with females generally being slightly bigger than males.
A prominent physical feature is the thick, fleshy ridge of skin known as the supratympanic fold, which sits above the eardrum and further contributes to the frog’s bulky look. The skin on the back is generally smooth, contrasting with the granular texture found on their belly surface. Coloration is variable, ranging from bright emerald green to light blue or grayish-brown, often depending on ambient temperature or environment.
The species possesses large, round toe pads that function as suction cups, enabling them to climb vertically on smooth surfaces like glass. Their fingers have partial webbing, while the webbing between their toes is more extensive, assisting in locomotion. A unique trait compared to many other tree frogs is the horizontal pupil in their golden-colored eyes.
Natural Range and Common Behaviors
The White’s Tree Frog is native to a broad geographic range across northern and eastern Australia, as well as southern New Guinea. This species is highly adaptable, thriving in diverse environments from moist forests to areas with seasonal dryness. They are arboreal, typically living in trees often near a source of still water.
The frogs have successfully adapted to human-altered landscapes and are often found near suburban and agricultural areas. They are nocturnal, becoming active in the early evening to hunt. They spend the daytime resting in cool, moist, dark places such as tree hollows or rock crevices.
As a defense mechanism, their skin secretes various biologically active peptides, which possess antibacterial and antiviral properties. Their skin can also secrete a waxy substance, allowing them to form a cocoon that minimizes water loss. This unique adaptation helps them survive in drier conditions. They are known for being docile and somewhat sedentary.
Essential Care Requirements
For pet keeping, the White’s Tree Frog requires a vertical terrarium setup to accommodate its arboreal lifestyle. A minimum size of 15 to 20 gallons is recommended for a single adult. The enclosure must have a secure, tight-fitting lid, as their powerful toe pads allow them to easily escape. The interior should be furnished with stout branches, cork bark, and plastic or live plants to provide ample climbing and hiding opportunities.
The ambient daytime temperature should be maintained between 75°F and 85°F, dropping slightly at night but not below 65°F. This can be achieved using a heat mat or specialized heating elements. Humidity should be kept consistently between 50 and 70 percent, maintained through daily misting with dechlorinated water. A wide, shallow dish of chlorine- and chloramine-free water must be provided and changed daily.
As insectivores, their diet primarily consists of live, gut-loaded insects such as crickets, roaches, and various worms. It is necessary to dust their food with a calcium supplement a few times a week and a multivitamin supplement once a week to prevent nutritional deficiencies like metabolic bone disease. While they are known for their tolerance, handling should be minimized because their permeable skin can easily absorb salts and oils from human hands, which are toxic to the frog.