Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi all,

I am new to this forum and thought I would introduce myself and hopefully get a few answers to some questions I have...

I currently DO NOT have any frogs, but have been researching both tree frogs and dart frogs. Over the next few months, after proper research and vivarium set-up, I would like to acquire a few of either one or the other. I realize this is a tree frog forum, but I would be interested in anyone's opinion regarding which one would be a better beginner species (I am not asking which is "better,"...I understand that is like comparing apples to oranges). Rather, what are the most significant pros and cons of either species for a beginner (we do have hermit crabs and RES turtles, but the frogs will be a new endeavor). After reading all I can read on both frog species, I have not quite come to any conclusion yet...any thoughts would be greatly appreciated!

Also, can anyone please clear up the hot topic of which tree frogs can be housed together (if any), and likewise, which dart frogs can be housed together (if any...and just in case you're wondering...no, I promise I won't put the tree frogs together with the dart frogs...Reading previous posts has taught me that much! LOL). By the way, I'm also posting this in the dart frog forum in case any of you read both.

Thanks again,
Ann

I love all kinds of frogs, but I will say that the majority of tree frogs are easier to care for than the dart frogs. Tree frogs can be set up quite simply, are easier to feed, and less demanding in their care. Your best bet would be a White's tree frog, they are hardy and personable pet frogs. I have kept several kinds of frogs ranging from mantellas to green tree frogs, but the White's are the most forgiving and the most affectionate. If you find that you are comfortable caring for the tree frogs, then with a great deal of research, you can try keeping dart frogs. I try to talk my customers out of starting off with any difficult animal since it may discourage them from staying in the hobby if they have a bad experience.

Ann,

Hello. I keep and breed both darts and tree frogs and can honestly say that tree frogs are the easiest to own; although, I think darts are more rewarding in terms of behavior, activity, and color. That is not to say that there aren't pretty Tf's because there are many.

Since you have never owned a frog I suggest trying a temperate species of tree frog such as, green tree frogs, grey tree frogs, or barking tree frogs. These tend to be rather forgiving species in that they are hearty and can survive in various temperature ranges- allowing for more error on the keepers part. They are all also cheap; however, definately try for captive bred individuals because they are very much worth the price and it may save you from the effort of treating diseases.

Some darts are easy to keep once you get things going. However, I end up spending more time culturing their prey items than actually spending time observing them. In addition, they tolerate only a narrow range of temps and humidities unlike temperate tree frogs, which may be difficult or overwhelming for someone with no frog experience.

Take the time and think this one out. Think about your free time and vacationing- darts need to be fed often (daily) and cannot be unattended for too long.... tree frogs only need to eat once every 2-3 days or so= much better if you want to go away for the weekend. You seem to be a very intelligent individual and I'm sure you will make the proper choice. Don't think about mixing species yet, which I personally don't suggest doing.

Good luck!
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Justin
stk18119@loki.stockton.edu

D.auratus (Costa Rican, Nicaraguan)
D.leucomelas
D.tinctorius (lorenzo, yellowback, citro, pb, oyopock,etc.)
D.azureus
D.ventrimaculatus (yellow/gold)
D.pumilio (blue jeans, solid red)
P.aurotaenia (narrow bands/green)
P.bicolor
E.tricolor (Santa Isabel)
H. leucophyllata
P. hypochondrialis azurea
P. resinifictrix
A. caladryas
etc.......