White's Tree Frog
Litoria caerulea
🌍 Overview
White's tree frog - also called the dumpy tree frog or Australian green tree frog - is a large, robust arboreal frog native to Australia and southern New Guinea. They are one of the most docile frog species, remarkably tolerant of handling compared to most amphibians, and have become the most popular pet frog worldwide. Their characteristic "dopey" expression comes from a large, overhanging parotoid gland above the eye. Their skin secretions contain compounds with antimicrobial and antiviral properties.
📋 Quick Facts
Native Range
Northern and eastern Australia; southern New Guinea
Natural Habitat
Forest, woodland, and near human habitation (attracted to lit areas at night)
Adult Size
3-4.5 inches (7-11 cm)
Wild Diet
Insects, moths, cockroaches, crickets, and occasionally small lizards
Wild Lifespan
7-20 years (up to 21 years recorded)
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN)
⚖️ Compare
White's Tree Frog
Human
Adult Size
3-4.5 inches (7-11 cm)
5-6 feet (150-185 cm); ~135-200 lbs
Wild Lifespan
7-20 years (up to 21 years recorded)
~73 years (global average)
Wild Diet
Insects, moths, cockroaches, crickets, and occasionally small lizards
Omnivorous - eats just about anything
Native Range
Northern and eastern Australia; southern New Guinea
Global - originated in Africa roughly 300,000 years ago
Natural Habitat
Forest, woodland, and near human habitation (attracted to lit areas at night)
Everywhere from arctic tundra to tropical megacities
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN)
Least Concern (8+ billion and counting)
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🤓 Did You Know?
White's tree frogs are also called 'dumpy tree frogs' because they develop adorable fat rolls (parotoid glands and lipid ridges) as adults. These rolly features are a sign of a well-fed, healthy frog, not obesity!
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