How to Build an Inside Habitat for Toads

Unlike frogs, most toads are entirely terrestrial, or land dwelling, during most of their adult lives. The exception is usually when they breed. As pets, they normally require a damp terrarium, rather than an aquarium or a mixture of the two. However, this is not true for every toad. Oriental fire-bellied toads, for example, need a water area. Some species need an under-tank heater and others do not. Always fully research the exact requirements of the species you want to keep before creating the habitat.

Things You'll Need

  • 10-gallon or larger tank with light
  • Fertilizer-free compost
  • Bucket
  • Watering can
  • Live plants
  • Pieces of bark
  • Rocks
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Instructions

    • 1

      Add 5 or 6 inches of fertilizer-free compost or amphibian substrate to the tank.

    • 2

      Dampen the substrate with dechlorinated water in a watering can. To dechlorinate water, leave in a bucket for 24 hours. Alternatively, use a commercial dechlorinator from an aquarium supply store.

    • 3

      Introduce several growing plants suitable for the toad species. The toad supplier or sanctuary can advise you on which plants are appropriate for your toads. Select varieties that grow well in terrariums. Grasses, for example, are usually safe, but may overwhelm the tank.

    • 4

      Create hiding and resting places with pieces of bark and stacks of rocks.

    • 5

      Leave the terrarium for a week to allow the plants to establish themselves before introducing the toads.