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White's Dumpy Tree Frog

Litoria caerulea

Description:

The Green Tree Frog is larger than most Australian frogs, reaching 10 centimetres (4 inches) in length. The average lifespan of the frog in captivity, about sixteen years, is long in comparison with most frogs. Green Tree Frogs are docile and well suited to living near human dwellings. They are often found on windows or inside houses, eating insects drawn by the light. The Green Tree Frog screams when it's in danger to scare off its foe; and this particular frog squeaks when it is touched.

Habitat:

he Green Tree Frog is native to northern and eastern regions of Australia and to southern New Guinea.[6] Distribution is limited mostly to areas with a warm, wet tropical climate. In New Guinea, the Green Tree Frog is restricted to the drier, southern region. Its range spans from Irian Jaya to Port Moresby, and is most abundant on Daru Island. There have been isolated records in northern New Guinea, however this is thought to have been through introduction by humans. The International Conservation Union (IUCN) suggests "scattered locations" in both New Guinea and Indonesia. The species has been introduced to both the United States and New Zealand. In the United States, it is restricted to two regions within Florida, where it was possibly introduced through the pet trade. Only small populations have been found in Florida, and it is unknown whether they have caused any ecological damage as an invasive species. In New Zealand, a population was once present; however, there have been no sightings since the 1950s.

Notes:

The Green Tree Frog is one of the most popular pet frogs throughout the world. Its docile nature, often cartoon-like appearance, and long life expectancy make it an attractive choice for exotic-pet owners. It is also one of the easier frogs to care for: their diet is broad and they have a strong resistance to disease. One problem commonly associated with keeping this species as a pet is overfeeding; Green Tree Frogs tend to become obese if overfed. In the wild, exertion of energy is required for a frog to capture its prey. However, in captivity they are usually given live feed in a confined space. This lessens the activity needed for feeding, resulting in weight gain. An overweight member of the species will deposit fat layers over the top of the head and body, giving it "dumpy" appearance. Thus the name, "Dumpy Tree Frog." This is One of my Educational Displayed Frogs

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5 Comments

Neil Ross
Neil Ross 10 years ago

What a little fatty. How gorgeous, and cartoon-like appearance is so true. They look so animated. Great photo and awesome info.

rutasandinas
rutasandinas 12 years ago

Grandioso color !!!

Ismael Chaves
Ismael Chaves 12 years ago

Gorgeous!

JohnPaulStoddard
JohnPaulStoddard 12 years ago

thank you

KarenL
KarenL 12 years ago

Lovely spot & good information!
Welcome to Project Noah John!

JohnPaulStoddard
Spotted by
JohnPaulStoddard

Wichita Falls, Texas, USA

Spotted on Feb 26, 2012
Submitted on Feb 26, 2012

Spotted for Mission

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