With their electric green bodies, vivid red eyes, and charming nocturnal behaviors, red-eyed tree frogs (Agalychnis callidryas) are among the most iconic and visually striking amphibians in the pet world. Native to the tropical rainforests of Central America, they’re not only fascinating to watch but also relatively manageable for experienced keepers.
But don’t let their size or cuteness fool you! These frogs have very specific care needs when it comes to humidity, temperature, and enclosure design. This comprehensive care sheet will guide you through every essential aspect of caring for a red-eyed tree frog so you can help yours thrive in captivity.
Quick Facts
- Scientific Name: Agalychnis callidryas
- Common Name: Red-Eyed Tree Frog
- Lifespan: 5–10 years (up to 12 in ideal conditions)
- Size: 2–3 inches (females larger than males)
- Diet: Insectivorous (crickets, small roaches, worms)
- Behavior: Nocturnal, arboreal, shy
- Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced
1. Enclosure Setup
✅ Tank Size
- A vertical terrarium is ideal, as these frogs are tree-dwellers.
- Minimum for one frog: 12x12x18 inches
- Recommended for a group of 2–4: 18x18x24 inches
They are social animals and can be kept in small groups (same size only to avoid bullying), but require ample space and hiding spots.
✅ Substrate
- Use moisture-retaining, non-toxic substrates such as:
- Coconut fiber
- Organic soil (no fertilizers)
- Sphagnum moss (excellent for humidity)
Avoid gravel, bark chips, or loose substrates that could be accidentally ingested.
✅ Foliage & Decor
Red-eyed tree frogs need:
- Plenty of vertical climbing space
- Real or artificial plants (pothos, bromeliads, philodendron)
- Cork bark, branches, and vines for perching
- Leafy areas or hides for daytime rest
2. Temperature & Humidity
✅ Temperature
- Daytime range: 75–85°F (24–29°C)
- Nighttime: 65–75°F (18–24°C)
- Use a low-wattage heat source if needed, but avoid overheating. A heat mat on the side or a ceramic heat emitter can help.
✅ Humidity
- Ideal range: 70%–90%
- Mist the enclosure 2–3 times daily using dechlorinated or distilled water.
- Use a hygrometer to monitor.
- A water dish is also essential for hydration and helps with humidity.
Pro Tip: Install an automated misting system or fogger for consistency if manual misting becomes difficult.
3. Lighting & Day/Night Cycle
While red-eyed tree frogs are nocturnal and don’t need intense UVB, a low-level UVB light (2.0–5.0) is still beneficial for calcium metabolism and mimicking natural day/night cycles.
- Provide a 12-hour light/dark cycle using a timer.
- Nighttime red or blue lights can be used to observe them without disturbing their rhythm.
4. Feeding & Nutrition
✅ Diet
Red-eyed tree frogs eat live, appropriately-sized insects:
- Crickets (staple)
- Dubia roaches
- Black soldier fly larvae
- Waxworms (treat only)
- Silkworms
- Small hornworms
✅ Feeding Schedule
- Juveniles: Daily
- Adults: Every other day or 3x per week
Feed at night when they’re active.
✅ Supplements
Dust feeder insects with:
- Calcium + D3: 2–3 times per week
- Multivitamin: 1x per week
Always gut-load insects with nutrient-rich veggies 24 hours before feeding.
5. Water Quality
Never use tap water directly! Frogs absorb chemicals through their skin.
Water Tips:
- Use dechlorinated, reverse osmosis, or distilled water for misting and soaking.
- Provide a shallow, stable water dish (easy to climb out of).
- Clean the dish daily.
6. Handling & Temperament
Red-eyed tree frogs are not ideal for frequent handling. Their skin is delicate, and they absorb everything they touch, including the oils or chemicals on your hands.
If you must handle:
- Wash hands thoroughly and rinse well — or wear non-powdered nitrile gloves.
- Handle gently and briefly.
- Don’t force movement; let them step onto your hand.
They may jump, squirm, or vocalize softly when touched — that’s normal. Their natural defense is escape, not aggression.
7. Cleaning and Maintenance
- Daily: Spot clean poop, refresh water dish, mist as needed.
- Weekly: Clean glass, rearrange decor as needed.
- Monthly: Partial substrate replacement, wipe all surfaces with reptile-safe disinfectant.
Avoid complete breakdowns too often, as it disrupts beneficial microflora.
8. Common Health Issues
Red-eyed tree frogs are hardy if kept properly, but here are common issues:
| Issue | Symptoms | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Shedding Issues | Patchy skin | Low humidity | Mist more, improve ventilation |
| Nutritional MBD | Lethargy, limb deformities | Lack of calcium/D3 | Supplementation |
| Parasites | Weight loss, dull color | Dirty feeders, stress | Vet exam + fecal |
| Red Leg Syndrome | Redness on belly/legs | Poor hygiene | Immediate vet care |
Regular monitoring and proper hygiene prevent most issues.
9. Red-Eyed Tree Frog Behavior
- Nocturnal: Sleep during the day with eyes closed.
- Semi-social: Can live in groups, but males may call loudly.
- “Startle Display”: When disturbed, they flash their red eyes and show their orange feet to confuse predators.
They’re a joy to watch at night when they climb, hunt, and explore their lush terrarium.
10. Is a Red-Eyed Tree Frog Right for You?
These frogs are:
- Beautiful, exotic pets
- Best suited for display rather than interaction
- Great for hobbyists who enjoy building naturalistic enclosures
- Ideal for nighttime observation
They are not good beginner pets for small children or those wanting a hands-on animal.
Final Thoughts
Red-eyed tree frogs are some of the most captivating amphibians in the pet world. With the right enclosure, environment, and attention to humidity and diet, they can live long and healthy lives while adding a splash of vibrant color to your reptile room.
Whether you’re an amphibian enthusiast or looking to expand your terrarium collection, caring for a red-eyed tree frog is a rewarding and educational experience that brings a bit of the rainforest into your home.
