Reptile & Amphibian Forums

My class recently added a new addition to our room...a gray tree frog. I have had the frog for a month now without problems. My question is should I allow it to hibernate? The frog actually was discovered in our building. We don't know if it came in through an open window or was transported in a plant. I have had it in a small terrarium while preparing a larger one with a heat lamp. She has eaten a lot lately, and been active at night until this morning. She has completely burrowed herself in the substrate in the small terrarium. Should I switch her to the larger terrarium or leave her be in the smaller one? I have never kept frogs before, so I'm learning as I go. Also, if left to hibernate, how long will she hibernate? Any help you can offer would be very much appreciated!

Thanks,
ElemTeach

Hibernation is a complicated matter, and should not be attempted by a beginner unless the frog absolutely insists upon sleeping for the winter. During hibernation the animal will have no use of its immune system, so if it were to have any detrimental parasites or infections, they could overcome the animal during hibernation. Not to mention there are issues to do with as far as proper hydration and temperatures low enough to keep it from using all of its fat reserves.

I recommend moving the frog into the larger container as soon as possible. Make sure the frog has a warm side that is at least in the mid '80s. The frog should be supplied with clean dechlorinated water on a daily basis However, if the frog refuses food and stays buried underneath the substrate then you'll have to seriously consider moving into an area that stays cool and undisturbed. Check back on this form for details and they gets to that point.

Currently my gray tree frog's spending some time under her substrate but comes out during the day and eats ferociously.

Remember, Amphibians are like fish, they should be a look only pet. Do not be tempted to allow your students to "play "with the frog!
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