North American Bull Frog Care

American bullfrogs are large frogs with bodies ranging from 3 to 6 inches in length. They can jump distances ranging from 3 to 6 feet. These factors, as well as their environmental requirements and the fact they are highly territorial, should be taken into account when choosing their habitats. The bullfrogs' varied diet and medical needs should also be considered when caring for them.

  1. Enclosures

    • American bullfrogs require a lot of space. They should be kept in an enclosure of at least 20 gallons in size, with an additional 5 gallons of space fore each additional frog. The large space is necessary to allow the frogs space to hide. Also, if there is more than one frog, this gives each frog enough territory of its own to avoid aggression and cannibalism. The enclosure should be lined with natural barriers to protect the frogs from hitting against the walls.

    Environment

    • The tank should be heated from underneath, and fluorescent lamps should be set up to provide spots where the frogs can bask. The air temperature should be kept between 77 and 84 degrees, and the water temperature should be in the mid-70s. The air must be humid, so a humidifier should be used when necessary. The water should be filtered, or half of it should be exchanged twice a week. The enclosure needs to include items such as rocks and logs so the frogs will have places to hide.

    Food

    • Bullfrogs are not picky eaters; they will eat most anything. They are often fed earthworms, meal worms, crickets and even small fish and mice. Adult frogs can be fed two or three times a week, while younger frogs should be fed every other day. Food should be placed on a rock or in a dish rather than fed directly, as the frog may bite a feeder's hand. Bullfrogs also have a tendency to eat one another, so give them ample space in their enclose and take necessary steps to ensure this doesn't happen.

    Medical Care

    • Frogs should be taken to a veterinarian to ensure they are healthy. Bullfrog owners should also look for signs of illness. Examples of symptoms that need medical attention include redness of the limbs, vomiting or regurgitating food, appearance of lumps or bumps, loss of appetite and loose stools.