Description
Other Names (How it Got Its Names)
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Common names: Giant Waxy Monkey Tree Frog, Bicolor Waxy Monkey Frog, Kambo Frog (in reference to its traditional use by indigenous groups).
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Called “monkey frog” because of the way it uses its strong limbs and opposable thumbs to climb like a monkey.
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“Waxy” refers to the waxy secretions it spreads on its skin to prevent dehydration in hot, dry conditions.
Characteristics
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Large, robust arboreal frog with a broad head and muscular limbs.
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Known for producing waxy skin secretions, which they spread with their legs as a form of “sunscreen.”
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Nocturnal and slow-moving compared to many other frog species.
Recommended Vivarium Size
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Minimum: 24” x 18” x 24” for a pair.
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Taller enclosures preferred with sturdy branches, cork, and broad-leaf plants.
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Must include both climbing areas and horizontal resting branches.
Temperature
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Daytime: 75–82°F (24–28°C).
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Nighttime: 70–74°F (21–23°C).
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Provide a slight gradient for thermoregulation.
Humidity
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50–70% average humidity, with occasional spikes to 80% during misting.
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Unlike dart frogs, they prefer lower ambient humidity with good ventilation, but still need nightly misting and hydration opportunities.
Size of Frog
Life Span
Feeding
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Diet includes crickets, roaches, locusts, and other appropriately sized insects.
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Adults can also take larger prey such as moths and the occasional small vertebrate (in the wild).
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Feed 2–3 times per week; dust prey with calcium and vitamins.
Color/Pattern
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Dorsal coloration is bright to olive green.
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Ventral side is pale to creamy white, often with yellow/golden hues on thighs and flanks.
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Large, expressive eyes with horizontal pupils.
Social Behavior
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Generally tolerant when housed in pairs or small groups.
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Males may call loudly at night; aggression is uncommon but monitor if multiple males are housed together.
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Require ample space to reduce stress.
How to Determine Sex
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Males: slightly smaller, develop nuptial pads on forearms during breeding, and produce deep, resonant calls.
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Females: larger, bulkier, especially when gravid.
How to Breed
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Stimulate breeding by simulating rainy-season conditions (increased misting, higher humidity, and slightly warmer daytime temps).
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Eggs are typically laid on leaves overhanging water, wrapped inside the leaves by the female.
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Upon hatching, tadpoles drop into the water below and develop until metamorphosis.
