Are African Bullfrogs Suitable as Pets?
African bullfrogs are one of the largest species of frogs, with males reaching over 9 inches long and 3 pounds! One can understand their popularity as pets; but do these large amphibians make good companions?
Answers can vary. African bullfrogs are popularly kept as pets in captivity and sold as such; they’re relatively easy to take care of and make fascinating creatures to observe; however, they dislike being handled too frequently by humans, which could prove both hazardous and unhealthy for both parties involved.
If you prefer watching amphibian behavior and don’t require hands-on pets, an African bullfrog may make for an excellent companion. Continue reading to gain more knowledge.
What Is an African Bullfrog (Pixie Frog)?
An African bullfrog, more commonly referred to by its scientific name Pixie Frog, is one of the three largest species on earth and one of three that reach 9 inches male length while females only typically reach 4 inches in female form. They can be found throughout Africa.
These carnivorous animals eat anything that moves, including their young. Their diet includes insects, rodents, reptiles, birds, fish and even other frogs – for which they have sharp teeth and strong jaws.
The male bullfrog is well known for his loud, croaking call, which can often be heard echoing across swampy areas where these amphibians reside. If you have ever visited one, their call likely rang through and you likely know its echoing roar; African bullfrogs share these characteristics too!
Additionally, read: What Do African Dwarf Frogs Eat as Pets or in the Wild?
Temperament as Pets
African bullfrogs are generally solitary animals that prefer living alone in nature. They spend their days nesting underground among layers of their own shed skin for cooling purposes – this method helps them remain cool when their natural habitat can get hot and muggy. Only during rainy season do they typically emerge to surface and breed.
Captive rats exhibit their characteristic solitary behavior. They don’t enjoy being handled, which can even damage their delicate skin. Though not generally aggressive by nature, if threatened they have the capability of protecting themselves.
If you keep African bullfrogs as pets, it is essential that you respect their space and needs for solitude. If they are resting, burrowing, or hiding away somewhere they should never be disturbed as doing so could compromise their health and be harmful.
African bullfrogs can live for more than 30 years when treated correctly as pets, so if you plan on adopting one as a companion you must be prepared to provide care over time!
Risks of Owning an African Bullfrog as a Pet
African bullfrogs tend to be peaceful creatures when left alone; however, when exposed to stressors such as being disturbed or threatened they may react in unpredictable ways and require handling as pets. There are some risks involved with keeping and handling African bullfrogs; for instance:
Biting: Bullfrogs possess sharp teeth with strong jaws that can injure human hands. Injury: Their delicate skin is easily damaged when handled, thus increasing their likelihood of biting when handled improperly or too frequently by humans.
Escape: They possess strong legs that may allow them to jump away and try to escape your hands, though there have been instances of pet bullfrogs being injured by landing when trying to do just this.
