A Florida Invasive Exotic

Cuban Treefrog - Osteopilus septentrionalis

Here are a couple pictures of what I believe is a Cuban treefrog. We noticed him sitting in this rather unusual, hot and sunny spot one morning where he remained all day long. We didn't bother with him other than to take some pictures, so I'm not 100% certain it's a Cuban treefrog but he did have rather larger suction cup on the ends of his toes which is an indication of a Cuban.

We came across another one earlier in the week. This was was hiding in the folded picnic table umbrella beside the pool - a hiding spot my brother was aware of. When he opened it up, there was a HUGE Cuban treefrog peacefully hiding out! Well, he was huge as compared to the treefrogs found in Massachusetts - actually he was huge as compared to most frogs in MA. This one we caught, held and passed around to the kids and this one was DEFINITELY a Cuban Treefrog - no doubts and regrettably no pictures either!

However, at the time I wasn't aware that these frogs are considered an invasive species and the recommendation is to euthanize them. Had we known, perhaps we would have followed Florida's advice but either way these guys are simply awesome!

Cuban treefrogs are the largest treefrog in North America, however it is not native to North America. This species was introduced to southern Florida from the Caribbean and has continued to spread in Florida.

Cuban treefrogs are voracious eaters and unfortunately they eat Florida's native frogs, toads, and lizards, in addition to insects and spiders. In fact, Cuban treefrogs are SO successful at taking over habitat and eating Florida's native species that they are considered an invasive exotic (non-native) species - they are a threat to the biodiversity of Florida's native ecosystems and wildlife.

Due to the destructive effects Cuban treefrogs have on native species of amphibians and reptiles, many biologists recommend that Cuban treefrogs be euthanized/killed. A humane method of euthanasia is recommended. Just make SURE the frog you have is a Cuban treefrog before euthanizing it.

Freezing is a humane way to kill amphibians because their bodies go into a state of torpor - just as they do in cold weather outside, and after an extended time in freezing temperatures, the frogs die. Put the frog in a plastic ziploc bag, then into the freezer over night and out in the trash the following morning, done.

The distinguishing characteristics of the Cuban treefrog are:

• Size of the adults (up to 5 inches in body length, much larger than native Florida treefrogs)
• Enormous toe pads (larger than toepads of native treefrogs in Florida)
• Bumpy skin on the back, like skin of a toad
• Skin on top of head is fused to skull

Cuban treefrogs can be highly variable in color -- from pale tan/pale green without any markings to dark green or brown with an even darker color pattern on the back and legs. Sometimes they almost look white when they are inactive or cold.

For more information visit - UF Florida Wildlife Extension - University of Florida