The American bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus) is a captivating amphibian known for its impressive size and distinctive croak. Native to eastern North America, these frogs have also become an invasive species in various parts of the world. If you’re intrigued by the idea of keeping a pet amphibian, you might be wondering, “Can You Keep A Bullfrog As A Pet?”. The answer is yes, you can, but it’s crucial to understand that American bullfrogs are considered advanced-level pets due to their specific needs and large size. Reaching lengths of 3.5 to 6 inches, and with a potential lifespan of up to 16 years, these frogs require a significant commitment. Before you decide to bring one home, let’s dive into the essential aspects of bullfrog care to ensure you can provide a thriving environment for this unique creature.
Understanding the American Bullfrog
American bullfrogs are more than just large frogs; they are a species with specific characteristics and requirements that potential owners should be aware of. Originating from eastern North America, they are adaptable creatures that thrive in warm, shallow water habitats with abundant aquatic vegetation. Their adaptability, however, has also led to their invasive spread across the US and even to other continents.
Physically, bullfrogs are robust amphibians with olive-green skin, often patterned with gray-brown markings. They possess large heads, muscular bodies, short front legs, and powerful, long hind legs with webbed feet, perfectly designed for their semi-aquatic lifestyle. Their size and activity levels are key factors in understanding why they are considered advanced pets. They are sensitive to improper care, and their needs go beyond those of beginner-friendly amphibians. However, for the dedicated and prepared keeper, the American bullfrog can be a rewarding and long-lived pet.
It’s also important to consider the ethical aspect of pet ownership. American bullfrogs are frequently surrendered by owners unprepared for their care. If you’re serious about keeping a bullfrog, adoption from a rescue or local classifieds should be your first choice. Never capture wild bullfrogs to keep as pets, as this can negatively impact local ecosystems and may be illegal in some areas.
Setting Up the Perfect Bullfrog Habitat
Creating the right habitat is paramount for the health and well-being of your American bullfrog. Their enclosure needs to cater to their size, semi-aquatic nature, and activity levels.
Enclosure Size
Space is a primary consideration. A minimum enclosure size for a single adult American bullfrog is 48 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 21 inches high, which translates to approximately 75 gallons. Remember, this is just the minimum. Larger enclosures are always beneficial and will be fully utilized by your bullfrog. Think of providing as much space as you can realistically manage.
While adult bullfrogs need substantial space, smaller containers can be used temporarily for tadpoles as they grow. However, be prepared to upgrade the enclosure as your bullfrog matures.
Solitary Nature
American bullfrogs are naturally solitary creatures and are known for cannibalistic tendencies. Cohabitation is strongly discouraged. Housing multiple bullfrogs together can lead to stress, injury, and even death of one or more frogs. It’s best to keep only one bullfrog per enclosure.
Lighting and UVB
While bullfrogs can technically survive without UVB lighting, providing it is highly recommended for their optimal health. As diurnal and nocturnal animals, they would naturally be exposed to sunlight in the wild. UVB lighting aids in vitamin D synthesis, which is crucial for calcium absorption and overall well-being. It can also stimulate appetite and activity levels.
For a 48″ x 18″ x 21″ enclosure, suitable UVB bulbs include the Zoo Med Reptisun T5 HO 5.0 (22″) and Arcadia Forest 6% (22″). These bulbs should be housed in reflective fixtures and positioned 13-15 inches above the basking area if placed over mesh, or 16-18 inches if not. UVB does not penetrate glass or plastic, so placing the enclosure near a window is ineffective. Ensure the fixture doesn’t have a plastic cover that blocks UVB. UVB bulbs degrade over time and need replacement every 12 months to maintain their effectiveness. A 12-hour day/night cycle for lighting is appropriate.
Temperature Requirements
American bullfrogs, being ectotherms, rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature and metabolism. Maintaining a proper temperature gradient within the enclosure is essential.
The warm side of the enclosure should be kept between 80-84°F, while the cooler side should be around 74°F. Use digital probe thermometers to accurately measure temperatures in these zones. A temperature gun can also be a helpful tool.
Heat lamps are an effective way to warm the enclosure. Use low-wattage heat lamps clustered on one side, positioned above a basking spot like a sturdy branch or rock. Avoid ceramic heat emitters (CHEs), red bulbs, or blue bulbs, as they are less effective for providing the necessary heat. Adjust wattage or use a lamp dimmer to fine-tune temperatures.
Humidity and Water
As amphibians, bullfrogs have a strong dependence on water, especially during their tadpole stage. Maintain an average air humidity of around 60% during the day, using a digital hygrometer to monitor levels. Misting the enclosure daily with a sprayer can help achieve the correct humidity.
American bullfrogs are semi-aquatic, meaning a significant portion of their enclosure should be water. You can achieve this by either placing a large, easily removable water tub inside the enclosure or by creating a paludarium setup, which combines a shallow aquarium area with a land section.
If using a water tub, daily removal of waste and weekly scrubbing with an animal-safe disinfectant are necessary. Always dechlorinate new water before adding it to the enclosure. Never use distilled or reverse osmosis water, as these lack essential minerals. For paludariums, an appropriately sized filter is required to maintain water quality, along with regular filter maintenance. Live aquatic plants can further aid in water quality management.
Substrate
A moisture-retentive substrate is crucial for the land portion of the bullfrog enclosure. It helps cushion their bodies and maintain humidity levels, while also enhancing the enclosure’s visual appeal. The substrate should consist of small particles, retain moisture well, and be suitable for live plants if you choose to include them.
For the aquatic section, substrate is optional but can improve aesthetics. If you plan to include aquatic plants, use a plant-friendly aquatic substrate like Fluorite or Exo Terra Riverbed Sand.
Daily removal of waste (poop and urates) is essential. Replace the substrate every two months if you are not using a bioactive paludarium setup to ensure good hygiene.
Decor and Enrichment
A bare enclosure is unstimulating for a bullfrog. Providing decor is crucial for enrichment and to help your frog feel secure.
Suitable decor options include mopani wood, cork bark, rocks, live or artificial plants, and pre-made hides or caves. Ensure there are ample hiding places where your bullfrog can retreat and feel safe.
Feeding Your American Bullfrog
American bullfrogs are primarily carnivores, requiring a diet of whole animal prey to meet their nutritional needs. Interestingly, while adult bullfrogs are carnivorous, their tadpoles are herbivorous, feeding on algae and aquatic plant matter.
Adult bullfrogs are known for their voracious appetites and will consume almost anything they can fit in their mouths. They prefer live prey, as movement attracts them.
Food options for American bullfrogs:
- Black soldier fly larvae
- Crawdads
- Crickets
- Discoid roaches
- Dubia roaches
- Earthworms
- Fish
- Hornworms
- Mealworms
- Mice (as occasional treats, not staple)
- Shrimp (whole)
- Silkworms
- Snails (captive-bred only)
- Superworms
Smaller bullfrogs tend to eat insects more readily than larger adults. Tadpoles and young bullfrogs should be fed daily, while adults should be fed 2-3 times per week to prevent obesity.
Supplements
To ensure optimal health, bullfrogs require vitamin and mineral supplementation. Dusting prey items with a supplement like Repashy Calcium Plus LoD at each feeding is recommended. Occasional missed dustings are acceptable.
Handling and Interaction
American bullfrogs are not animals that enjoy handling. Like most amphibians, they find it stressful. If you wish to bond with your pet, feeding them with soft-tipped feeding tongs is a better approach than physical handling. Bullfrogs have a strong bite, so avoid hand-feeding to prevent accidental bites.
Handling should be kept to a minimum and only when necessary, such as for enclosure cleaning or health checks. When handling is required, wear nitrile gloves, use a net to gently capture the frog, and grasp it firmly but gently behind the head with one hand, supporting the rear legs with the other.
Conclusion
Keeping an American bullfrog as a pet can be a fascinating and rewarding experience for the dedicated amphibian enthusiast. However, it’s crucial to remember that they are advanced-level pets with specific needs regarding space, environment, and diet. By providing a spacious, well-maintained enclosure, appropriate heating and lighting, a varied diet, and minimizing handling, you can ensure your bullfrog thrives in captivity. If you’re prepared to meet these requirements, and ideally consider adoption, you can enjoy the unique presence of this impressive amphibian in your home. Remember to always continue researching and learning about bullfrog care to provide the best possible life for your pet.
