Chinese Tree Frog

1 Overview

The Chinese tree frog (Hyla chinensis) is a small, green, tree-dwelling frog widespread across central and eastern China and neighbouring regions. Like other hylids it is an agile climber with adhesive toe discs.

It is vocal during the breeding season and commonly found near ponds and rice fields where it lays its eggs.

2 Appearance

The body is slender and bright leaf-green above with a pale underside; a dark stripe often runs through the eye. The expanded toe pads are the giveaway of its arboreal lifestyle.

Adults are small, generally 3-5 cm, with long hind limbs built for leaping between branches.

3 Care & Temperament

Keep an upright, humid terrarium with vertical branches, broad leaves, and a shallow water dish. Mist daily to maintain humidity and provide gentle ventilation.

Watch for skin infections in stale, dirty conditions; clean water and good airflow prevent most problems.

4 Habitat & Environment

Naturally arboreal, favouring shrubs and trees beside still or slow water. Replicate with foliage, climbing structures, and a warm, humid microclimate.

5 Diet & Feeding

Insectivorous: crickets, fruit flies, small roaches, and moths. Dust prey with calcium and vitamins. Feed active, moving insects – they ignore stationary food.