Pacman Frog (Ceratophrys cranwelli)
Experience Level: Beginner
Did you know? Pacman Frogs get their resemblance to the Pac-Man video game character with their large mouths and abdomens. They are one of few frogs with teeth and may bite if startled or if they feel threatened.
Step 1Choosing a Terrarium
Choosing a Terrarium
Pacman Frogs originate from humid environments. They are known to be cannibalistic and will eat other frogs or animals in the habitat. Pacman Frogs should always be housed individually.
(A) Use a 10-gallon (18-20" long) or larger terrarium.
(B) Screened lid, if not included with terrarium.
Step 2Heating and Lighting
Adequate habitat temperatures and humidity levels are imperative to the health of your frog.
• Every habitat should be equipped with a (C) thermometer to monitor temperature and a (D) hygrometer to monitor humidity.
• Supplemental heat, if necessary (ambient home temperatures often fall within the acceptable range for these frogs), should be provided by a (E) heat bulb placed over the habitat. Heat bulbs should be turned off at night to provide cooler nighttime temperatures.
• Use a night-specific heat lamp as needed to maintain nighttime temperatures.
|Day||75-85° F (24 - 29° C)|
|Night||55-75° F (18 - 24° C)|
• Pacman Frogs are nocturnal (most active at night) and provided they are supplied with dietary vitamin D, they do not require ultraviolet light, however, they do need a 12-hour light/dark cycle. If room light does not provide enough light, use a daytime light bulb (fluorescent) to provide approximately 12 hours of visible light per day.
• For night viewing, use a night-specific bulb to minimize visible light provided to your frog.
Step 3Substrate and Decor
(F) Use 2-3" (5-8 cm) layer of coconut fiber or bark. These frogs like to burrow so bedding should be adequately deep to allow for this.
• Clean out waste weekly and completely change bedding at least once a month.
(G) Provide branches (artificial or live) for hiding. Pacman Frogs are not very active pets and spend most of their time sitting in one spot waiting for food. Live plants help maintain humidity levels (consult resources on tropical frogs for a list of appropriate plants).
New surroundings and environments can be stressful for pets. Prior to handling your pet, give him 3-4 days to adjust to his new surroundings while monitoring his behavior for any signs of stress or illness.
Things to Watch For
• Runny droppings for more than two days
• Eating or drinking less; weight loss
• Swollen joints
• Discharge from the eyes, nose or mouth
• Discolored skin
• More time spent hiding
If you notice any of the signs described above, speak with a PetSmart store associate or a veterinarian about the health of your pet.
Pets purchased at PetSmart are part of our exclusive Vet Assured™ program; a program designed by PetSmart veterinarians to help improve the health and well-being of our pets.
The program includes:
• Specific standards our vendors agree to meet in caring for and observing pets for common illnesses.
• Specific standards for in-store pet care.
• The PetSmart Promise: If your pet becomes ill during the initial 14-day period, or if you’re not satisfied for any reason, PetSmart will gladly replace the pet or refund the purchase price.