Amazon Milk Frog or Trachycephalus resinifictrix is an amphibian native to the South American rainforest. Particularly, in the Amazon and some areas of Brazil. They are also located in nearby areas of Columbia, Venezuela, Trinidad, Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia and in the amazon basin.
Milk Frogs are called Mission-golden-eyed tree frogs or blue milk frogs. They are commonly referred to as milky frogs because of the milky substance that is secreted by their bodies whenever they are stressed. Although this substance is not poisonous, it may still cause damage to predators. The milky substance will serve as a protective layer to prevent water loss, especially during drought periods.
This animal is not widely available in the market but is well-raised by most hobbyists in the United States. They have shy behavior when it comes to shedding, as they do it privately. They use their legs in order to remove the shed on their bodies, they also eat it right after. This is not an issue as it is completely normal for these animals to feed on their dead skin.
Appearance/Size
Amazon Milk Frogs are characterized by their bumpy skin and large toes for climbing. They have dark and light shades of brownish-gray coloration on their bodies. Froglets are usually gray in color with black and white bands on their legs. Their color changes as they reach the maturity stage. Their mouth has a unique bright blue color and the areas around their nostrils and toes also have a touch of bluish tint. The most interesting fact about these animals is that their blood is also color blue! That’s the reason why their physical features manifest blue coloration!
These species are amazingly vocal animals, especially during nighttime. In fact, males can use different objects in their environment to enhance the volume of their voices. It can even make use of water-filled holes in the trees to make its voice reach further for females.
The size of this animal can reach 2.5 to 5 inches upon adulthood. Usually, females are larger species compared to their male counterparts.
Habitat
They live on canopies and high areas of tropical rainforest. They are excellent at climbing trees due to their feet’s natural adaptation to climbing. This animal is rarely found on the forest floor. They only go down during the mating season and during the rainy period. They are also nocturnal animals and basically hunt insects on trees at night.
According to the study conducted by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, this animal is not categorized as endangered species since it has a stable population. However, there are issues pertaining to the loss of their habitat and diminishing pollution due to threats to their natural environment. These animals are susceptible to danger because of this imminent threat to their survival.
What they eat
Amazon Milk frogs are generally fed with insects because they are carnivores. Protein-rich insects such as brown crickets, locusts, mealworms and waxworms or calci-worms are recommended for them. These insects are easier to digest and contain essential nutrients for their growth.
This amphibian can also be fed with gut-loaded insects. Take note that animals in captivity have limited resources when it comes to the food that they eat. In their natural habitat, they can feast on several insects thus providing them with complete nutrients for overall growth and development. In captivity, they are generally fed with locally raised insects which may have insufficient nutrients or minerals. Hence, the insects must be either dusted with nutrients and minerals or gut-loaded to make sure they are healthy.
For optimal nutrition, give your milk frogs supplements in form of vitamins and minerals with calcium. This is available in powdered form and may be sprinkled directly on the insect feeders.
How long do they live
Amazon Milk frogs have a life expectancy of 15 years. Under captivity, they can reach up to 25 years if they are provided with proper nutrition and good environmental condition.
Generally, milk frogs in the wild have longer life expectancies because, in nature, they are poisonous animals. They secrete a sticky substance which causes the predators to get sick. They are not generally preyed on because of this reason.
Enclosure
Because of their size, this animal requires a larger container or enclosure. The recommended size is an 18 by 18 by 24 terrarium. This can house a group of at least 2 to 3 frogs of different ages. The enclosure must be provided with enough ventilation and climbing materials.
Woods and vine plants can be a great decorations for your tank since they are tree-dwelling animals. You can place live plants or artificial decorations to beautify their place. Plants can serve as a hiding place for your amphibians. In placing decoration, make sure it’s free from chemicals or has smooth edges so that that they are kept safe inside the tank.
Milk frogs should be kept on a moderately moist substrate to retain the humidity inside the tank. The most ideal substrate is orchid bark with a mixture of moss.
Milk frogs require a temperature level of 75 degrees Fahrenheit. This can be made possible by placing a heat mat under the tank or in a warm area. This can be regulated by the use of the thermostat. Always make sure that the temperature does not exceed 75 degrees as it may cause dryness and loss of moisture in the tank.
The humidity level must also be monitored. As stated above, the amazon milk frog originated from the rainforest where a high level of humidity is innate in the environment. In captivity, the level of humidity must be within 50 to 90 percent and the same may rise up to 100 % during the night. Monitor the moisture by the using hygrometer. Humidity may be increased by placing plants, water dishes or constant spraying.
Milk frogs also need UVB for vitamin D3 synthesis. This can be attached to the ceiling of the tank. Vitamin D3 is important for the bone development of your pets. It’s also significant for the growth and structure of their bodies. Using UV lighting reduces the risk of metabolic bone diseases among milk frogs.
Breeding
Breeding season starts during the wet or rainy season. Prior to that, identify the sex of your animal. Females are generally big and fat and larger than adult males. Male, however, are shorter, relatively 2 and a half inches and has a sleek appearance. They reach maturity at 1 and a half years of age.
Start breeding your animals by creating a large group instead of a pair of male and female. Make sure there are more males than females for a higher success rate. Once mating was successful, they will start to lay eggs in wet areas or in water dishes.
You can also add a plastic box and fill it with water. Decorate it by placing branches or wood so that they can easily get in and out of the water. Make sure that the water is not chlorinated and free from chemicals. Replace the water frequently to maintain cleanliness. If no egg is produced you can also place them in a rain chamber.
Milk frog clutch may range from 100 to 1500 eggs. Once they are noticed, you should remove them to a separate enclosure so that they will not be disturbed by the adult frogs. Within 2 days, tadpoles can break free from the eggs. Once the eggs are hatched, they can now be transferred to an aquarium and should be fed with fish flakes the moment they start to get active.
Final Thoughts
Amazon milk frogs are easy to care for animals. But they still need the right condition in order to thrive. They need a significant amount of humidity, temperature, lighting and a well-balanced diet to last longer. They also need a clean and safe environment to stay safe and secure. Milk frogs are social animals and they do great in groups. They can coexist with each other peacefully. Hence, they can be good pet!