Red-Eyed Tree Frog
This page is educational reference material for preparing questions. A licensed veterinarian examines the animal, makes the diagnosis, and sets the treatment.
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Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Classification | Amphibian |
| Size | Small (2-3 in) |
| Lifespan | 5-10 years |
| Temperature | 72-82°F |
| Humidity | 60-80% |
| Enclosure | 18x18x24 in tall vivarium |
| Care Level | Intermediate |
| Diet | Crickets, fruit flies, small roaches |
| Temperament | Nocturnal, Arboreal |
| Origin | Central America (Costa Rica to Panama) |
| Habitat Type | Arboreal, humid tropical |
| Typical Cost | $40-$75 for animal; $200-$400 setup |
Recommended for Red-Eyed Tree Frog Keepers
Zoo Med — Heating, lighting & habitat supplies | Exo Terra — Vivariums & terrarium accessories | Chewy — Amphibian food & supplies
Red-Eyed Tree Frog Food & Supplements
Chewy — Frozen bloodworms, pellets & feeder insects | Zoo Med ReptiCalcium — Calcium with D3 supplement | Oxbow — Premium small animal nutrition
Red-Eyed Tree Frog Habitat Essentials
Exo Terra — Vivariums & misting systems | Zoo Med — Thermostats, hygrometers & substrates | Chewy — Terrariums & aquatic supplies
Protect Your Red-Eyed Tree Frog
Spot Insurance — Exotic pet coverage options | Lemonade Pet — Affordable pet insurance plans
Asleep on a leaf, on purpose
Red-eyed tree frogs, Agalychnis callidryas, are the leaf-sleepers of Central American rainforests, from Costa Rica through Panama. Adults are about 2 to 3 inches, green above, blue and yellow on the flanks, with red eyes they keep shut all day. People buy them for that postcard and then worry that the frog "never moves." It is nocturnal. The daytime statue is the healthy behavior. Waking it up to show the eyes stresses the animal you paid for.
The quick facts list 5 to 10 years, 72 to 82°F, humidity 60 to 80 percent, a tall 18 by 18 by 24 inch vivarium, and intermediate care. Treat the lifespan as often closer to the low end. These are not White's tree frogs in brighter paint.
Branches over water, insects after dark
They climb, drink droplets, and lay eggs over water in the wild. In a tank that means sturdy branches above a bowl, plants with broad leaves, and misting that raises humidity at night without leaving them soggy at noon. Crickets, fruit flies, and small roaches, dusted, are the diet. Offer them when the eyes are actually open.
Handling rubs off the protective slime and is how tiny toe injuries start. Move them with a cup if you must. Children can watch the tank. They should not carry the frog to school.
The expensive postcard
Animals often cost $40 to $75, and a proper tall setup $200 to $400. A frog that stays brown, refuses food for a string of nights, or develops raw skin is past the "maybe it's just sleeping" stage. ARAV clinics are the right call. The not-eating page and the checker help you decide if the morning is soon enough. Buy captive-bred. The wild version of this frog is not a souvenir.
Red-eyed tree frog questions
Are red-eyed tree frogs good for beginners?
The quick facts say intermediate. The photo sells a beginner fantasy. They are nocturnal, humidity-sensitive, and a poor handling animal.
How long do red-eyed tree frogs live?
The table says 5 to 10 years. Five to seven is the common captive span. Ten is a well-kept outlier, not the number to plan a child's childhood around.
Why are the eyes red?
Startle color. A sleeping frog tucks them away. When disturbed it flashes red eyes and bright flanks. It is a defense, not a sign you should wake it for guests.
What temperatures do they need?
About 72 to 82°F, with humidity around 60 to 80 percent and a climb over a water bowl. They are not a dry lizard and not a flooded dart-frog box.
Decision Guides for Red-Eyed Tree Frog
Use these only when comparing food, insurance, ownership budget, or beginner fit for this specific pet.