Invasive Species of the Sunshine State- #3: the Cuban Treefrog

Frogs are undoubtedly some of the weirdest and most unusual members of the animal kingdom... which could also describes amphibians as a whole, but they're perhaps the ones we're also most familiar with. As you can very well imagine, the hot moist climate of Florida is literally the perfect atmosphere for these critters. There are over 30 species of frogs native to the state, most of which are native, however a few species have been imported into the country and have since become quite established over the years.

Frogs that have adapted to living up high among the trees, and climb using enlarge suction discs are there toes are called tree frogs, several of which are found throughout the sunshine state. Most of the native species, such as the green tree frog (averaging about 2 inches) tend to stay smaller, however the Cuban treefrog gets quite a bit larger, reaching up 5 inches in length. That unfortunately puts them far above the others on the food chain, especially given that their appetite is equally as big as they are. These frogs are voracious eaters, and will attempt to eat almost any animal smaller than themselves. This includes medium to large insects, small lizards, rodents, and even other frogs. Our native frogs, like the green tree frog and squirrel treefrog, naturally make an easy snack. Studies have also shown that the Cuban treefrog reproduces and lays eggs, at a much faster rate and larger quantity than the other species, making them more effective at propagating their species.

These frogs can change both the coloration and pattern of their skin depending on their body temperature and other external factors. Skin color is typically a tan to light brown, although it is not uncommon to find individuals that are of a much darker brown or black, and even some that are a bit more greenish. Colder individuals may even appear an almost pure white, giving them the appearance of an albino, however if you were to put them in direct sun for a few minutes, the frog's skin would quickly darken. The skin secretions of the Cuban treefrog are toxic, so it is most certainly advised that you do not let your pets eat them, and always wash hands after handling these frogs.

https://www.redbubble.com/people/jagrolet/works/506831-cuban-tree-frog

The "big appetite" statement was no exaggeration

http://www.caribbeanfootprint.com/2013/01/08/cuban-tree-frog-in-action/

Cuban treefrog tadpole

http://www.sxmwildlife.com/tadpole-in-a-dry-land/

Sources:
http://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/nonnatives/amphibians/cuban-treefrog/
http://www.arkive.org/cuban-treefrog/osteopilus-septentrionalis/