Description
Other Names (How it Got Its Names)
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Common names: Hourglass Tree Frog, Hourglass Frog.
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Named after the distinctive hourglass-shaped marking found on the back.
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Dendropsophus means “tree-dwelling voice,” referring to its arboreal habits and loud calls.
Characteristics
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Small, slender tree frog with a high-pitched, repeated call.
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Nocturnal and arboreal, found in lowland tropical forests, ponds, and wetlands.
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Highly adaptable — known for unique reproductive flexibility, as they can lay eggs both on leaves above water or directly in the water.
Recommended Vivarium Size
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Minimum: 18” x 18” x 24” for a group of 3–4.
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Vertical space with branches, plants, and leaf cover is essential.
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Provide a shallow water feature or bowl for breeding and soaking.
Temperature
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Daytime: 74–82°F (23–28°C).
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Nighttime: 68–72°F (20–22°C).
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Tolerates mild fluctuations, but avoid prolonged heat above 85°F.
Humidity
Size of Frog
Life Span
Feeding
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Diet: small crickets, fruit flies, and other small insects.
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Feed 3–4 times per week.
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Supplement with calcium and multivitamins regularly.
Color/Pattern
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Dorsal surface is yellow to tan with a distinct dark brown “hourglass” shape on the back.
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Pattern can vary, but the hourglass marking is the key identifier.
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Pale belly with smooth texture.
Social Behavior
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Social and can be kept in groups.
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Males call frequently at night, especially during breeding conditions.
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Generally peaceful compared to territorial dart frogs.
How to Determine Sex
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Males: smaller, with vocal sacs and loud, repeated calls.
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Females: larger, fuller-bodied, and silent.
How to Breed
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Triggered by heavy rainfall or simulated “rain chamber” conditions.
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Eggs may be laid on leaves overhanging water or directly in water, depending on environment.
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Eggs hatch within days; tadpoles develop in aquatic environments until metamorphosis.
