Tree frogs are a diverse group of amphibians found primarily in tropical and subtropical regions on every continent except Antarctica. Their diet is strictly carnivorous, consisting entirely of live prey captured through hunting. Understanding what tree frogs eat requires recognizing the distinct difference between their natural, varied, and opportunistic diet in the wild and the controlled, supplemented regimen required for health in captivity. The primary focus for any owner is bridging this nutritional gap to ensure the long-term well-being of their pet.
The Natural Foraging Habits of Tree Frogs
In their natural habitats, tree frogs are opportunistic insectivores that rely on a strategy of ambush hunting rather than active pursuit. They possess a keen ability to detect the movement of small animals passing within striking range. Their diet is highly reflective of the arboreal environments they inhabit, consisting of whatever invertebrates are readily available on branches and leaves.
The bulk of a wild tree frog’s intake consists of small terrestrial and flying arthropods. This includes a wide array of prey such as crickets, flies, moths, mosquitoes, beetles, and spiders. Because the available prey changes with the seasons and geographical location, the frog receives a naturally balanced and diverse intake of nutrients. Larger species, such as the Cuban tree frog, may occasionally consume smaller frogs or lizards.
Staple Diet for Pet Tree Frogs
The foundation of a healthy captive diet must mimic the protein-rich, insectivorous nature of their wild feeding habits. Since live, moving prey is necessary for the frog to recognize food, a variety of commercially raised insects form the staple diet. The most common and nutritionally sound feeders are crickets and dubia roaches, which are high in protein and readily accepted by most species.
When selecting prey, a fundamental rule is to ensure the insect is no larger than the width of the space between the frog’s eyes. Feeding prey that is too large can lead to difficulty in swallowing, regurgitation, or severe digestive issues, including impaction. Juvenile frogs generally require daily feedings, while adult frogs can be fed every two to three days to prevent obesity.
Other insects, such as mealworms and waxworms, should be offered only as occasional treats. These feeders are significantly higher in fat content, which can quickly lead to weight gain and liver problems if fed too frequently. Furthermore, mealworms possess a harder exoskeleton that can be difficult for the frog to digest.
Ensuring Complete Nutrition in Captivity
Feeder insects alone do not provide a complete nutritional profile for captive amphibians, necessitating the addition of powdered supplements. This process, known as “dusting,” involves lightly coating the live prey immediately before offering it to the frog. The two main supplements required are calcium and a multivitamin blend.
Calcium is the most frequently needed supplement, often dusted onto prey at every feeding or every other feeding to prevent Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD). MBD is a severe condition caused by calcium deficiency or an inability to absorb calcium. The calcium powder must be fortified with Vitamin D3 if the frog is not housed under appropriate UVB lighting, as D3 is necessary for the proper absorption of calcium.
The multivitamin supplement, which provides necessary vitamins like Vitamin A, is typically administered less often, usually once a week or every two weeks. Beyond dusting, a practice called “gut-loading” is essential for transferring full nutrition to the frog. Gut-loading involves feeding the prey a highly nutritious diet of fresh vegetables and commercial formulas for 24 to 48 hours before they are fed to the frog, effectively turning the insect into a nutrient-delivery vehicle.
Common Feeding Issues and Solutions
A common problem is a frog refusing food, which often signals underlying stress, inappropriate temperatures, or a pending skin shed. Frogs require specific ambient temperatures to properly digest food, so a drop in enclosure temperature can quickly lead to a loss of appetite. Increasing the enclosure temperature slightly or monitoring for shedding behavior can often resolve this temporary refusal.
Impaction is a serious risk that occurs when a frog consumes substrate while attempting to catch prey, or if the prey item is too large. Feeding the frog in a separate, bare container is an effective way to prevent the accidental ingestion of bedding material. Managing the frog’s weight is another concern, as captive tree frogs are prone to obesity; this can be controlled by reducing the frequency of high-fat treats like waxworms.
Access to clean water is paramount for a frog’s appetite and digestion. Tree frogs absorb water through their skin, making hydration a constant factor in their overall health and willingness to eat. Providing a shallow dish of fresh, dechlorinated water that is changed daily supports healthy digestive function.