Species · GBIF taxon 2428083
Cuban Tree Frog
Osteopilus septentrionalisAlso known as Cuban Treefrog
Cuban tree frogs are formidable, highly adaptable predators recognizable by their exceptionally large toe pads and rough, warty skin. They thrive in human-dominated landscapes, often congregating near outdoor lights at night to snatch insects, smaller frogs, and even small lizards. Their loud, rasping mating calls sound like a squeaking gate and echo through warm, humid nights.
InvasiveNocturnalAmphibian
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Native tree frogs
- Insects
- Anoles
Predators
- Birds of prey
- Snakes
- Raccoons
ThreatsNo major threats; they are highly successful and expanding their invasive range
HabitatsUrban gardens, suburban neighborhoods, wetlands, and moist forests
Life span5 to 10 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyHylidae
- SpeciesOsteopilus septentrionalis
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskHigh
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is high
- Secretes a toxic mucus that irritates eyes and is harmful to pets; avoid handling.
- Why it is dangerous
- Secretes a noxious, irritating mucus from the skin that causes intense burning if rubbed into eyes or nose, and can make pets sick if ingested.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Distinguished by its large size up to five inches, exceptionally large toe pads, and skin on the head that is fused to the skull.
- What to do
- Avoid touching with bare hands, wash thoroughly if contact occurs, and keep pets away from them.
Responsible observation
- Identification: Look for exceptionally large toe pads, fused skull skin, and highly variable coloration.
- Reporting: Document and report sightings in invasive zones to local wildlife authorities.
- Safe Handling: Wear gloves if handling is necessary to avoid contact with irritating skin secretions.
Prey and Competitor (c) Douglas Goldman, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), uploaded by Douglas Goldman · cc-by-sa
Prey and Competitor 
Co-occurring Invader (c) Connor Margetts, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Connor Margetts · cc-by
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