How to Care for a Captive Leopard Frog

The United States has about 10 species of leopard frog, all with slightly different needs. The species you are most likely to see in the pet trade are the northern leopard frog (Rana pipiens) and the southern leopard frog (Rana utricularia). The basic care is much the same for all species. They need a habitat with both land and water areas, suitable hiding and resting places and a plentiful supply of live food.

Things You'll Need

  • 20-gallon or larger tank
  • Gravel
  • Chemical-free potting compost
  • Moss
  • Cork bark
  • Live food
  • Calcium and vitamin supplement for frogs
  • Gravel cleaner
  • Bucket
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Instructions

    • 1

      Identify the species. If you acquired the frog from a reputable breeder, as you should when buying any amphibian or reptile, the breeder will be able to tell you. If you don̵7;t know, perhaps because the frog came from an animal sanctuary, consult a frog guidebook or ask an expert in a local museum, park or zoo.

    • 2

      Create an appropriate habitat for the species. Most leopard frogs need a 20-gallon or larger tank with a secure mesh cover. Create a land area by sloping large aquarium gravel from one end of the tank to the other. Add dechlorinated water until about half the gravel is underwater. Enrich the land area with chemical-free potting compost, moss and cork bark.

    • 3

      Feed the leopard frog a variety of live invertebrates, such as crickets, small worms, bloodworms, roaches and wax worms. Dust the food with a calcium and vitamin supplement for frogs as per the instructions. Juvenile frogs need feeding every day, adults every two to three days. Generally, each frog needs two or three items at a meal, but observe how quickly he feeds. If food is left over, feed less next time. If the frog snatches the food quickly, give him a little more.

    • 4

      Remove the water and debris with a gravel cleaner and bucket at least once a week. Replace with fresh, dechlorinated water.