🐸 General Info

White’s Tree Frogs (Ranoidea caerulea), also known as Dumpy Tree Frogs or Australian Green Tree Frogs, are calm, hardy, and famously charming arboreal amphibians native to Australia, New Guinea, and surrounding islands. They are known for their plump appearance, gentle temperament, and whimsical expressions—making them one of the most popular pet frog species.

Adults typically reach 3–4.5 inches, with females being larger than males. They are extremely hardy and tolerate a wide range of conditions, making them excellent for beginners and experienced keepers alike. White’s tree frogs are nocturnal, semi-arboreal, and enjoy climbing, perching, and lounging in elevated spots.

With proper care, they can live 12–20+ years in captivity.

1. Enclosure

Size

White’s tree frogs require vertical space for climbing.

  • Single frog: 18" x 18" x 24"

  • Pair or small group (2–3): 24" x 18" x 24"

  • Larger group (3–5): 36" tall enclosure preferred

They thrive in tall terrariums with lots of climbing opportunities.

Material

Suitable enclosure types include:

  • Front-opening glass terrariums (ideal)

  • Bioactive terrariums

  • Tall glass aquariums with secure mesh lids

Must have good ventilation and sturdy doors—White’s tree frogs are strong.

Substrate

Use moisture-retaining substrates such as:

  • Coconut fiber

  • Eco Earth

  • Sphagnum moss

  • Bioactive soil mixes

  • Bark chips (if not too large)

Avoid loose gravel or sharp substrates—they can ingest it.

A drainage layer with LECA or stones is recommended for bioactive setups.

Décor

They love:

  • Thick branches

  • Bamboo poles

  • Cork bark

  • Vines and climbing plants

  • Large sturdy leaves (pothos works great)

  • Elevated hides or cup-like leaves

  • Water dish at the bottom

White’s tree frogs spend lots of time perched up high, so vertical décor is essential.

2. Temperature & Lighting

Temperature

  • Daytime ambient: 75–82°F

  • Basking area (optional): 85°F

  • Night: 68–72°F

Avoid temperatures above 85°F for extended periods.

Lighting

White’s tree frogs are nocturnal, but lighting is still important for their environment.

  • 12-hour day/night cycle

  • UVB is optional, but low-level UVB (5.0) is beneficial

  • Naturalistic LED lighting helps plant growth in bioactive setups

Heating

  • Use low-wattage heat sources

  • Overhead heat is preferred over mats

  • Avoid hot rocks or high-intensity bulbs

Maintain gentle, even warmth—these frogs do not tolerate overheating.

3. Humidity & Water

Humidity

Maintain 50–70% humidity.

They tolerate lower humidity than many tree frogs, but they still require regular misting.

  • Mist once or twice daily

  • Live plants help stabilize humidity

  • Provide areas of both moist and dry retreat

Water

Provide:

  • A shallow, wide water dish

  • Clean, dechlorinated water ONLY

  • Water deep enough for soaking but safe for climbing out

  • Daily water changes

White’s tree frogs love soaking and occasionally defecate in water, so cleanliness is crucial.

4. Diet

White’s tree frogs are opportunistic carnivores with hearty appetites.

Staple Foods

  • Crickets

  • Dubia roaches

  • Black soldier fly larvae

  • Earthworms

  • Silkworms

  • The occasional hornworm

Occasional Treats

  • Waxworms (rare—they're fatty)

  • Pinky mice (VERY rare and only for large adults; not recommended as a regular food)

Feeding Schedule

  • Juveniles: Every 2–3 days

  • Adults: Every 3–4 days

Avoid overfeeding—White’s tree frogs easily become obese (hence the nickname “Dumpy”).

Supplements

  • Calcium: 2–3× per week

  • Multivitamin: 1× per week

Use supplements more often for juveniles.

5. Behavior & Handling

Temperament

White’s tree frogs are known for being:

  • Calm

  • Docile

  • Hardy

  • Tolerant of some handling

  • Very expressive and engaging

They are nocturnal and most active at night.

Handling

While they tolerate handling better than most frogs, it should still be minimal.

If you do handle them:

  • Wash hands before and after

  • Avoid lotions, soaps, or oils

  • Handle with wet, clean hands

  • Keep sessions short

Their skin absorbs chemicals easily.

Enrichment

They enjoy:

  • Vertical climbing structures

  • Large leaves to sit on

  • Branches and vines

  • Occasional rearrangement of décor

  • Bioactive environments

  • Running water features (optional but appreciated)

These frogs thrive in dynamic, lush environments.

6. Health & Lifespan

Lifespan

12–20+ years, sometimes longer.

Common Health Issues

  • Obesity (very common)

  • Skin infections from poor hygiene

  • Respiratory infections from low temps or overly wet conditions

  • Shedding issues

  • Parasites (especially wild-caught frogs)

Signs of Illness

  • Redness or sores

  • Lethargy

  • Refusal to eat

  • Difficulty shedding

  • Weight gain or sudden weight loss

  • Puffy or swollen appearance

  • Clicking or wheezing sounds

Vet Care

Seek an amphibian-experienced reptile vet for any symptoms of illness.

Final Notes

White’s tree frogs are hardy, endearing, and full of personality. Their calm nature, tolerance for varied conditions, and expressive faces make them one of the best amphibians for both beginners and advanced keepers. With proper humidity, climbing space, clean water, and responsible feeding, they can live for decades and become delightful long-term companions.