Cuban Tree Frog

Osteopilus septentrionalis, commonly known as the Cuban tree frog, is an amphibian native to the Caribbean region of the Western Hemisphere. It is the largest tree frog of North America. Their wide diet and ability to thrive amongst humans has made it a highly invasive species with established colonies in Northern Florida, the Hawaiian island of Oahu, and thorough the Caribbean Islands. They range in size from 3 to 5.5 inches (76 to 140 mm) and vary in color from olive-brown, bronze, gray, or grayish-white. A nocturnal tree dwelling frog, they are known to eat almost anything that will fit in their mouth and to mate year-round. Their arrival in a new community is believed to be detrimental to local species and it has been suggested that these frogs be destroyed on sight upon their arrival in new habitats. Cuban tree frogs are commonly available as pets; however, because the animal secretes a toxic mucus from their skin that can cause a burning sensation in the eyes, it is not an ideal pet. It is also believed that further distribution of the species has been expanded by the release of these animals as pet.