The Whistling Tree Frog (Litoria verreauxii) is a small, ground-associated tree frog from the cooler and temperate regions of south-eastern Australia. Despite its name, it spends much of its time low among grasses, rushes, and leaf litter rather than high in trees. Its call is a soft, rising whistle. Adults reach around 2.5 to 3.5 cm and are a hardy, cold-tolerant species. With proper care they can live 5 to 10 years.
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. Only use 2.0 UVB at most.
Enclosure
Unlike most tree frogs, the Whistling Tree Frog prioritises ground-level habitat over height. A vivarium around 45 x 30 x 30 cm suits a small group well. Provide low branches and dense ground-level plants, leaf litter or cork for hiding, a moisture-retaining substrate, and a shallow dechlorinated water dish with a textured exit. Taller enclosures are fine but height is less critical than for strictly arboreal species. Browse our terrarium range.
Temperature and Humidity
- Daytime temperature: 18 to 25°C
- Night: allow to drop naturally. This species tolerates cool temperatures well and does not need to be kept as warm as tropical species. Avoid sustained temperatures above 28°C.
- Humidity: 60 to 75%, maintained by misting and a moist ground substrate
No supplementary heating is needed in most Queensland homes. Avoid overheating: this is a cooler-climate frog and high temperatures are more of a concern than low temperatures for this species. Browse our heating and thermostat range if needed.
UVB Lighting
A 2.0 UVB tube on an 8 to 12 hour cycle, adjusted seasonally if desired. Browse our UVB lighting range.
Feeding
Insectivores. Their small size requires appropriately small prey: small crickets, flies, moths, and small woodies. Gut-load before use and dust with calcium and multivitamin at every second feeding.
- Juveniles: daily.
- Adults: 2 to 3 times per week.
Browse our live feeders.
Handling
Handle only when necessary with clean, wet, powder-free hands or gloves. Keep sessions brief. This is primarily a display species.
Biosecurity
Never release captive frogs or their enclosure water into the environment. Quarantine new arrivals away from existing collections.
Quick Reference
| Parameter | Target |
|---|---|
| Adult size | 2.5 to 3.5 cm |
| Lifespan | 5 to 10 years |
| Temperature | 18 to 25°C (avoid above 28°C) |
| Humidity | 60 to 75% |
| UVB | 2.0 only, 8 to 12 hrs/day |
| Water | Dechlorinated only, shallow with textured exit |
| Habitat focus | Ground level (low branches, leaf litter) |
Shop
- Terrariums and Reptile Supplies
- Low-level UVB Lighting
- Substrate and Plants
- Water Conditioner
- Live Feeders
- Calcium and Supplements
Disclaimer
This guide is provided for general educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. A Queensland wildlife keeper's licence is required to purchase and keep Whistling Tree Frogs.
