Cuban Treefrog

Description:

The Cuban tree frogs range in size from 3 to 5.5 inches (76 to 140 mm) in length. It is the largest tree frog in North America and has a rough warty skin.[2] Their toepads are much larger than those of other tree frogs and they will often have an orange-tint to their eyes.[3] Varying in color from, olive-brown, bronze, gray,[3] or grayish-white.[4] Cuban tree frogs can change colors depending on their temperature and environment. Many individuals have darker splotches on the back, and some splotchy banding on the legs. In many individuals, the hidden surfaces of the legs are bright yellow. When the frog leaps to avoid a predator, these bright yellow patches are visible, and may help to confuse the predator. Also, the skin on their heads is fused to the skull—if the head of an adult frog is rubbed (between the eyes), the skin does not move. This is a special adaptation that prevents water loss, since there are fewer blood vessels in the "co-ossified" (fused) area. When handled, Cuban tree frogs secrete a toxic mucus from their skin. In humans, this can cause an allergic reaction or burning sensation to the eyes and nose, and even trigger asthma.

Habitat:

Osteopilus septentrionalis, commonly known as the Cuban tree frog, is an amphibian native to the Caribbean region of the Western Hemisphere. It is the largest tree frog of North America. Their wide diet and ability to thrive amongst humans has made it a highly invasive species with established colonies in Northern Florida, the Hawaiian island of Oahu, and thorough the Caribbean Islands. They range in size from 3 to 5.5 inches (76 to 140 mm) and vary in color from olive-brown, bronze, gray, or grayish-white. A nocturnal tree dwelling frog, they are known to eat almost anything that will fit in their mouth and to mate year-round. Their arrival in a new community is believed to be detrimental to local species and it has been suggested that these frogs be destroyed on sight upon their arrival in new habitats. Cuban tree frogs are commonly available as pets; however, because the animal secretes a toxic mucus from their skin that can cause a burning sensation in the eyes it is not an ideal pet. It is also believed that further distribution of the species has been expanded by the release of these pets.

Notes:

Cuban tree frogs are commonly available in the pet trade within the United States.They are inexpensive, and when cared for properly tend to live 5–10 years. They feed readily on commercially available crickets, however while in captivity they may turn to cannibalism. The skin of Cuban tree frogs secretes a toxic mucus that can burn the eyes and trigger an allergic (or asthmatic) reaction; as a result, this species is not an ideal pet species, especially for children. The Cuban tree frog's colonization of the Hawaiian island of Oahu is believed to be a result of accidental or deliberate release of pets. Therefore the species is now banned from sale in Hawaii. Conviction of importation of a Cuban tree frog carries a maximum fine of $25,000 and a year in jail