The Australian Red-eyed Tree Frog (Litoria chloris) is a strikingly coloured arboreal frog from the rainforests and wet forests of eastern Queensland and northern New South Wales. Vivid green above with bold red-orange eyes, it is one of the more visually impressive native frogs available in captivity. Adults reach 6 to 7 cm. They are best kept as display animals with minimal handling. With proper care they can live 10 to 15 years or more.
In Queensland a licence is required to keep native frogs. See our Queensland Reptile Licence Guide.
Two Rules for All Frog Keeping
Always use dechlorinated water, and only use 2.0 UVB at most. Both apply to every native frog without exception.
Enclosure
A well-planted tall vivarium suits this species. A minimum of around 45 x 45 x 60 cm suits 2 to 3 adults. Include broad-leaved foliage and branches for climbing and hiding, a moisture-retaining substrate, and a shallow dechlorinated water dish with easy entry and exit. Dense planting provides both cover and humidity.
Browse our terrarium range.
Temperature and Humidity
- Daytime temperature: 22 to 28°C
- Night: allow to drop, not below about 18°C
- Humidity: 60 to 80% (higher than the Common Green Tree Frog due to their rainforest origin)
Mist daily or twice daily. Allow the enclosure to partially dry between mistings to prevent stagnant moisture. Browse our heating and thermostat range.
UVB Lighting
A 2.0 UVB tube on a 10 to 12 hour cycle. Browse our UVB lighting range.
Feeding
Insectivores. Offer varied live insects gut-loaded before use: crickets, woodies, moths.
- Juveniles: daily.
- Adults: 2 to 3 times per week.
Dust with calcium and multivitamin at every second feeding. Browse our live feeders.
Handling
Best kept as a display species. Handle only when necessary using clean, wet, powder-free hands or gloves. Never handle with soap, sunscreen, or anything on your hands. Keep handling brief.
Biosecurity
Never release captive frogs or their water into the environment. Quarantine new arrivals away from existing collections. These practices help protect wild frog populations from disease.
Breeding
Seasonal breeders triggered by a cooler period followed by simulated rainfall (a rain chamber or heavy misting). Eggs are laid in water and tadpoles metamorphose into froglets over several weeks.
Quick Reference
| Parameter | Target |
|---|---|
| Adult size | 6 to 7 cm |
| Lifespan | 10 to 15+ years |
| Temperature | 22 to 28°C |
| Humidity | 60 to 80% |
| UVB | 2.0 only, 10 to 12 hrs/day |
| Water | Dechlorinated only |
| Feeding (adult) | 2 to 3 times per week |
Shop
- Terrariums and Reptile Supplies
- Low-level UVB Lighting
- Substrate and Plants
- Water Conditioner
- Heating (if needed)
- Live Feeders
- Calcium and Supplements
Disclaimer
This guide is provided for general educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Individual animals vary and outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Always consult a qualified veterinarian for health concerns. A Queensland wildlife keeper's licence is required to purchase and keep Red-eyed Tree Frogs.
