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Cuban Tree Frog
Osteopilus septentrionalis
Description:
The Cuban tree frog was introduced to southern Florida from the Caribbean and has continued to spread
in Florida. They can be highly variable in color ranging from pale tan to pale green without any markings
to dark green or brown with an even darker color pattern on the back and legs. Sometimes they almost
look white when they are inactive or cold.
Habitat:
This species prefers habitat that is moist and shady -- in trees, shrubs or around houses. It is commonly
found near ornamental fish ponds and well-lit patios. They have been widely introduced throughout the
Caribbean and into southern Florida, and appear to have had a negative impact on the ecosystem. In the
areas of introduction, native tree frog populations have declined, probably due to predation and
competition for resources.
Size:
Cuban tree frogs are the largest tree frog found in North America. Average size is 2 to 5 inches, but some
females can grow up to almost 6 inches in length, while males generally stay smaller.
Lifespan:
The average lifespan for this frog is approximately 5 years.
Food:
Cuban tree frogs are voracious eaters. They eat Florida's native frogs, toads, and lizards, in addition to
insects and spiders.
Offspring:
The breeding season lasts from May to October. The call of the Cuban tree frog is variably pitched,
slightly rasping or like grating stone. Cuban tree frogs will lay a clutch of up to 3,000 eggs in any body of
standing water and the tadpole stage lasts 30-60 days.
Fun Facts:
• The skin on the head of a Cuban tree frog is fused to the top of the skull and won't move.
• They have enormous toe pads, much larger than those of native frogs and bumpy skin like a toad.
• When frogs swallow a meal, its bulgy eyeballs close and sink in to its head. The eyeballs apply
pressure and actually push a frog's meal down its throat.