What Are Australian Green Tree Frogs?

Frogs of many varieties are interesting in their own way, and the  Australian green tree frog is no exception.

Litoria caerulea, or the Australian green tree frog, is found in the northern and eastern parts of Australia, and it is also found in small areas of Papua New Guinea and Indonesia. Captive-bred Australian green tree frogs may also be sold as pets.

Docile and unafraid of humans by nature, these frogs scream when threatened or annoyed. They are nocturnal animals, hunting during this time and making mating calls from February to November. Near slow-moving or still bodies of water, male Australian green tree frogs grab onto the female frog in a process called amplexus. As the female lays her eggs, the male releases sperm simultaneously, fertilizing the eggs.

Due to their nocturnal nature, these frogs sleep during the day, sleeping in cool, dark wet areas. While they have lungs, they mainly breathe through their skin, which has to be constantly moist in order for the process known as cutaneous breathing to work.

During dry seasons, the Australian green tree frog will find a cool area and form a cocoon made of dead skin and mucus to reduce water loss until rain arrives. Their mucus allows these frogs to stick to surfaces, especially with their use of toe pads that have powerful grip strength. Some frog species’ mucus, including the Australian green tree frog, contain anti-microbial properties that are being researched for use in antibiotics and HIV medication.

The Australian green tree frog is carnivorous, using its sticky tongue to grab prey and swallow it whole. They may also pounce and grab prey using their hands, shoving the prey down their mouth. They then pull their eyes into their skull to help them swallow. 

They then would develop fat pads on their heads, giving the creature a dumpy appearance. High-fat insects such as mealworms and wax worms should be given in moderation. These frogs also eat cockroaches, moths, and slugs. These treats should be dusted with calcium and a multivitamin. Water filtered through a water conditioner should be provided to the frog as well.