Gray Treefrog
Hyla versicolor
Family: Hylidae
Adult Size: From 1½ to 2 inches in total length.
Range:
The gray treefrog is native to the United States and Canada, east of the Rocky Mountains.
Habitat: As their common name implies, these frogs use trees for much of their habitat. They are occasionally found on the ground, usually during the breeding season or right after metamorphosis, which can occur in as little as two months under optimal conditions.
Captive Lifespan: 5 to 8 Years
Care Level: Beginner
Overview:
The Cope’s treefrog (Hyla chrysoscelis) is very similar to the gray treefrog and usually can only be distinguished by their calls.
As with many species, the simpler the cage, the better the animal will fare under captive conditions. Gray treefrogs, given the proper set-up, will live 10 to 15 years in captivity. A 20 gallon tall aquarium works perfect for these small undemanding captives. Though not as aesthetically pleasing, a substrate of dampened paper towels works extremely well in the long-term maintenance of these frogs. The towels should be dampened with spring water as opposed to distilled water to prevent any water balance issues in these animals. A shallow water bowl of fresh spring water should be provided so that the animal maintains proper hydration. The frogs will use a live plant for hiding. The plant will also help to maintain proper humidity levels in the terrarium.
Crickets make a good staple food item. Supplement these with small mealworms and small silk moth larvae. Gray treefrogs have a voracious appetite and can become obese if overfed. Gut loading crickets with a large variety of vegetables and commercial cricket food is a good way to provide nutritious food items. A vitamin/mineral supplement is also a good idea with this species, especially for younger animals still undergoing periods of rapid growth. This will help to ensure proper bone development.
