Amphibian · Terrestrial frog
American bullfrog care guide
Lithobates catesbeianus
The american bullfrog is a intermediate-level terrestrial frog from Eastern North America incl. southern Canada (invasive in BC). Adults reach 9–20 cm and live 8–15 years in captivity. A large semi-aquatic frog: large water section plus land. Illegal to keep or move in BC.
- Enclosure 120 × 45 × 45 cm
- Temp 20–26°C
- Humidity 70–80%
How much does a american bullfrog cost in Canada?
American bullfrog quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- 9–20 cm
- Lifespan
- 8–15 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- Eastern North America incl. southern Canada (invasive in BC)
- Minimum enclosure
- 120 × 45 × 45 cm (47 × 18 × 18 in, ≈ 64 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- 20–26°C
- Humidity
- 70–80%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Carnivore – roaches, earthworms, fish, nightcrawlers
- Bioactive style
- Semi-aquatic (paludarium)
American bullfrog enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 120 × 45 × 45 cm (47 × 18 × 18 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a semi-aquatic (paludarium) bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix8 cm
- Drainage – clay bio balls4 cm
Quantities assume about half the floor is land. The water half needs a filter and regular partial water changes.
Temperature: 20–26°C. Humidity: 70–80%. UVB: Not needed.
What does a american bullfrog eat?
Carnivore – roaches, earthworms, fish, nightcrawlers. Feed adults every 3–5 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Jumpy and nervous; minimal handling.
Health watch: Snout injuries from jumping and obesity.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check water and air temperature; feed according to species.
Weekly
- Change 20–30% of the water with dechlorinated water.
- Rinse filter sponge in old tank water (never tap water) as needed.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter on land; prune plants at the waterline.
Yearly
- Service the pump/filter fully.
Recommended for a american bullfrog bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (120 × 45 × 45 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 4 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 8 cm
Almond Leaves Dried 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sphagnum Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Malaysian Drift Wood
Bridges water and land; easy exit from the water
Cork Bark Flats
Shelter on the land section
American bullfrog FAQ
Is the american bullfrog good for beginners?
The american bullfrog is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Jumpy and nervous; minimal handling.
What size enclosure does a american bullfrog need?
At least 120 × 45 × 45 cm (about 47 × 18 × 18 inches, roughly 64 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a american bullfrog cost in Canada?
Typically $20–50 CAD to buy, about $530–930 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $150–300 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a american bullfrog need?
Temperature: 20–26°C. Humidity: 70–80%.
What does a american bullfrog eat?
Carnivore – roaches, earthworms, fish, nightcrawlers. Feed adults every 3–5 days.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.