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INTRODUCTION

Recently, United States herpetoculturists have focused on a more naturalistic approach to keeping reptiles and amphibians. Many keepers now house their animals in naturalistic vivaria—captive environments that simulate certain essential characteristics of an animal’s natural habitat—a trend that has led to increased interest in the small animals that thrive in these new kinds of enclosures.

Among the best vivarium animals are tree frogs, stunning creatures that perch on virtually anything—including glass walls, branches, and leaves—and make for incredible display animals. Certain species of these frogs even can be kept with other small frogs and lizards in a community vivarium, allowing keepers to create vibrant habitats in their own home. Unfortunately, just as the interest in tropical amphibians is increasing, availability appears to be diminishing, the result of lack of knowledge, lack of standards for commercial exploitation, protective legislation (some of which is unsound), habitat destruction, and environmental and climatic changes. If people are to enjoy frogs and other amphibians in the future, sound conservation, research, and management of various species must receive immediate attention, and herpetologists must establish self-sustainable populations of as many species as possible.

The authors’ original goal was to write a simple, basic book on the care of popular tree frogs, but during the writing process it became obvious that successful frog keeping requires certain skills and knowledge—much like keeping tropical fish. Although there are a number of books about the care of amphibians, several were written by authors with little or no experience in keeping or breeding frogs, and few contain any valuable information.

This book, written by experienced and recognized frog herpetoculturists, focuses on the care of popular tree frogs now sold in pet stores. It covers many important topics, from acclimating imported species to housing, feeding, and captive-breeding. It is a practical manual for the serious hobbyist who cares about the welfare of his or her animals.