Cuban Treefrog (Osteopilus septentrionalis)
Order: Anura; Family: Hylidae; Genus: Osteopilus. Members of this family are characterized by expanded toe pads for climbing; the genus Osteopilus is known for having skins fused to the skull (exostosis).
Species
Cuban Treefrog (Osteopilus septentrionalis)
Family
Order: Anura; Family: Hylidae; Genus: Osteopilus. Members of this family are characterized by expanded toe pads for climbing; the genus Osteopilus is known for having skins fused to the skull (exostosis).
Size
One of the largest treefrogs in North America. Females: 3 to 5.5 inches (7.6 to 14 cm); Males: 2 to 3.5 inches (5 to 9 cm). Size at metamorphosis is approximately 0.5 inches.
Conservation
IUCN: Least Concern. In the United States, they are considered an invasive pest species that negatively impacts native biodiversity by outcompeting and preying upon indigenous amphibians.
Description
The Cuban Treefrog is a dominant presence in the ecosystems it invades. These large, adaptable amphibians are commonly found perched near porch lights or tucked into crevices near human dwellings. Their oversized toe pads give them an alien-like appearance as they cling to vertical surfaces. They are a classic example of an invasive generalist that thrives where others perish.
Key Features
Large size (over 2.5 inches), exceptionally large toe pads, warty skin, and skin on the head fused to the skull in adults.
Physical Description
Large, robust treefrog with a broad head. It possesses very large, prominent toe pads and large eyes with horizontal pupils. The legs are long and powerful, adapted for jumping and climbing. The tympanum (eardrum) is conspicuous and large, often nearly the size of the eye.
Skin Texture & Coloration
Skin is highly variable, ranging from smooth to exceptionally warty or granular. Coloration varies from pale grey or beige to bronze or olive green green, often with irregular dark mottling or blotches. They lack a consistent stripe on the lip or side. Undersides are typically creamy white.
Distinguishing Features
The most diagnostic feature is that the skin on the top of the head in adults is fused to the skull bones (it cannot be moved with a finger). Very large toe pads (significantly wider than the toes) and warty skin help separate it from native North American treefrogs.
Habitat
Highly adaptable. Inhabits forests, swamps, and wetlands, but is extremely common in suburban and urban areas. They frequent man-made structures including house siding, pipes, and outdoor lights where insects congregate.
Geographic Range
Native to Cuba, the Bahamas, and the Cayman Islands. It is a highly successful invasive species in Florida and has established populations in Georgia, Louisiana, and various Caribbean islands.
Behavior
Nocturnal and highly predatory. They are known for 'cannibalism,' frequently eating native frog species. They move by climbing and jumping. When threatened, they may remain still, hoping their camouflage hides them, or leap into cover.
Diet & Feeding
Generalist carnivores. They eat almost anything they can fit in their mouths, including insects, spiders, snails, and small vertebrates such as other frogs, lizards, and small snakes.
Reproduction
Explosive breeders, typically triggered by heavy summer rains. They use any standing water, including ponds, swimming pools, and birdbaths. Eggs are laid in a film on the water surface; a single female can lay thousands of eggs in a season.
Vocalizations
The call is a raspy, variably pitched, two-note 'snarl' or 'squawk' resembling the sound of a lid being pulled off a plastic container or a rusty hinge. It is low-pitched compared to smaller treefrogs.
Life Cycle
Rapid development. Eggs hatch into tadpoles within 24-48 hours. Tadpoles are dark and develop into froglets in 3-5 weeks. High mortality in the wild, but can live 5-10 years in captivity.
Conservation Status
IUCN: Least Concern. In the United States, they are considered an invasive pest species that negatively impacts native biodiversity by outcompeting and preying upon indigenous amphibians.
Toxicity & Defense
The skin secretes a toxic mucus that can cause severe irritation to human mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth). In pets, ingestion can cause excessive salivation or illness, though it is rarely fatal to humans.
Ecological Role
They act as a major predator of native frogs (like the Green Treefrog). By displacing native species, they disrupt the local food web and can alter the composition of insect communities.
Similar Species
Green Treefrog (Hyla cinerea) - has smoother skin and a visible lateral stripe; Squirrel Treefrog (Hyla squirella) - much smaller with smaller toe pads; Barking Treefrog (Hyla gratiosa) - has more circular spots.
Observation Tips
Look near outdoor lights on houses after dark, especially on warm, humid nights. They are often found hiding in 'pockets' of moisture like PVC pipes, bromeliad axils, or under shaded siding during the day.
Handling & Safety
Exercise caution. If handled, wear gloves or wash hands immediately. DO NOT touch your eyes or face after touching one, as the skin secretions are very irritating. In some regions, authorities recommend humanely euthanizing captured specimens.
Seasonal Activity
Active year-round in tropical climates, but activity peaks during the wet/rainy season (May to October in the Northern Hemisphere). They become dormant or hide in well-insulated crevices during cold snaps.
Cultural Significance
Invasive populations in Florida have led to 'citizen science' removal programs. They are often used as a 'case study' in schools to teach about the dangers of invasive species and ecosystem imbalance.
Interesting Facts
In Florida, they are known to crawl into electrical boxes and cause short circuits, leading to local power outages and damaged air conditioning units.