Other Names (How it Got Its Names) Common names: White’s Tree Frog, Australian Green Tree Frog, Dumpy Tree Frog. Named after John White, the surgeon general who first described the species. Nicknamed “dumpy” due to their chunky body shape and folds of skin. Characteristics Hardy, calm-tempered, and one of the most common pet tree frogs. Known for being docile, often tolerating gentle handling better than most frogs. Famous for its “smiling” expression and large golden eyes. Recommended Vivarium Size Minimum: 18” x 18” x 24” for 1–2 adults. Larger enclosures (36” tall or more) are recommended for groups. Provide climbing branches, large leaves, and horizontal perches. Temperature Daytime: 75–85°F (24–29°C). Nighttime: 65–72°F (18–22°C). Can tolerate warmer temperatures briefly, but provide cooler retreats. Humidity 50–70% average, with regular misting. Requires good ventilation to prevent bacterial/fungal skin issues. Size of Frog Adults: 3–4.5 inches (7.5–11 cm). Females larger and bulkier than males. Life Span 12–15 years in captivity, sometimes longer with excellent care. Feeding Diet: crickets, roaches, moths, and other appropriately sized insects. Adults can occasionally take pinkie mice or feeder fish, but insects should be the staple diet. Feed 3–4 times per week; dust prey with calcium and vitamins. Color/Pattern Normal form is bright to dark green, sometimes turquoise or blue-green. Some individuals show white or golden spots along the back and sides. Pale underbelly; skin texture is smooth but slightly waxy. Social Behavior Can be housed singly, in pairs, or in groups with adequate space. Generally docile toward cage-mates. Known to be vocal — males produce a loud, distinctive croak at night. How to Determine Sex Males: smaller, develop dark nuptial pads on thumbs, and call loudly. Females: larger, rounder body. Sexing juveniles is difficult until maturity. How to Breed Stimulate breeding with a rain chamber setup (heavy misting, water depth, and warmer temps). Males call loudly to attract females. Eggs are laid in water, usually attached to vegetation in clusters. Tadpoles are aquatic and can metamorphose in 6–8 weeks depending on diet and conditions. 🐸 The Australian White’s Tree Frog is considered one of the best beginner tree frogs due to its hardiness, docile nature, and long lifespan.
