EXPERIENCE ROXY'S PET SHOP CARE SHEETS

• Tank Size: Pacman frogs are relatively small but need adequate space to move around. For a single adult Pacman frog, a 10-gallon tank is a minimum, though larger tanks (like a 20-gallon long) are better, especially if you plan to keep multiple frogs. Pacman frogs are ground dwellers and do not need vertical space, so the enclosure should be low and wide rather than tall.
• Substrate: Pacman frogs need a moist, absorbent substrate to maintain humidity. Use materials like coconut coir, sphagnum moss, or cypress mulch. Avoid gravel or sand, as these can irritate their sensitive skin and are difficult to clean. The substrate should be 2-4 inches deep to allow the frog to burrow, which is a natural behavior.
• Humidity: These frogs thrive in high humidity environments, typically between 60-80%. To maintain proper humidity, mist the enclosure daily, and ensure that the substrate stays damp but not waterlogged. A shallow water dish should be available at all times for soaking and drinking.
• Temperature: Pacman frogs prefer warm temperatures ranging from 75-85°F (24-29°C) during the day, with a slight drop at night to about 70-75°F (21-24°C). Use an under-tank heater or heat lamp to maintain the temperature, and place a thermometer in the tank to monitor it regularly.
• Lighting: Pacman frogs are nocturnal and do not require strong lighting. A basic day/night cycle is fine, but UVB lighting is not essential. However, if you want to provide some UVB exposure for health reasons, ensure the bulb does not produce excessive heat and is used in moderation.
• Decor: Pacman frogs enjoy hiding, so provide hides such as caves, bark, or plant cover. They also enjoy burrowing, so adding some soft, live plants like pothos can create a more natural environment while helping maintain humidity.

• Carnivorous Diet: Pacman frogs are carnivores and have an insatiable appetite. They primarily feed on insects, small vertebrates, and carrion in the wild. In captivity, they can be fed a variety of live prey, including crickets, mealworms, superworms, roaches, waxworms, and small mice.
• Feeding Frequency: Young frogs should be fed every 2-3 days, while adults can be fed 2-3 times per week. Always offer prey that is appropriately sized—no larger than the width of the frog’s head. Pacman frogs are sit-and-wait predators, so they prefer to be fed prey that moves in front of them, which mimics their hunting behavior.
• Gut-Loading & Supplementation: Before offering prey, gut-load the insects with nutritious foods like vegetables, fruits, and grains. Dust prey items with a calcium supplement (without phosphorus) a few times per week to support bone health. You can also dust insects with a multivitamin supplement once a week to ensure your frog gets the necessary nutrients.
• Avoid Overfeeding: Pacman frogs are known to overeat, which can lead to obesity or digestive problems. Feed them the appropriate amount of food and remove any uneaten prey after 24 hours to avoid spoilage and pests in the tank.

• Solitary Creatures: Pacman frogs are generally solitary animals and do not need or seek interaction with other frogs. In fact, it’s best to keep only one frog per enclosure, as they may become aggressive or cannibalistic toward other frogs, especially when they feel threatened or hungry.
• Handling: While they can be handled, Pacman frogs are not particularly fond of being picked up and should not be handled frequently. Always handle your frog with care, and only when necessary (for cleaning or tank maintenance). Avoid touching their skin excessively, as their skin is sensitive and can absorb chemicals or oils from your hands, which could harm them. Always wash your hands before and after handling.
• Behavior: Pacman frogs are nocturnal, so they tend to be more active at night. During the day, they often remain burrowed in the substrate or hidden in their cave. If you observe your frog being active during the day, it could indicate that the enclosure temperature is too high or that the frog is stressed.

• Skin Health: Pacman frogs have sensitive skin, and it’s essential to maintain proper humidity to avoid skin dryness, which can lead to shed problems or skin infections. Regular misting of the tank and ensuring the substrate stays damp will help maintain moisture levels.
• Shedding: Like all amphibians, Pacman frogs undergo regular shedding, especially when they are growing. If you notice your frog struggling to shed properly, increase the humidity and offer a shallow water dish for soaking. If necessary, you can gently mist the frog with warm water to assist with shedding.
• Signs of Illness: Common signs of illness in Pacman frogs include lethargy, lack of appetite, swelling, abnormal skin shedding, or discharge from the eyes or mouth. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult an exotic pet veterinarian with experience in amphibians. It's important to act quickly, as amphibians can deteriorate rapidly if not treated.
• Parasites: Since Pacman frogs are carnivorous and eat live prey, they can sometimes ingest parasites from their food. Make sure to regularly clean the enclosure and ensure the prey you offer is gut-loaded and free from parasites. Periodically, have your frog examined by a vet to check for internal parasites, especially if you notice changes in behavior or appearance.

• Breeding Conditions: In captivity, breeding Pacman frogs is quite rare, but it’s possible if the right conditions are met. Females may be induced to breed by offering rainy season conditions, including increased humidity, cooler temperatures, and extra water. This usually involves a specific period of simulated rainy conditions to trigger breeding behavior.
• Egg Laying: If breeding is successful, females will lay several hundred eggs in the water. The eggs will hatch into tadpoles, which will require special care and feeding. However, it’s typically easier to avoid breeding, as large quantities of tadpoles can be challenging to manage.
• Tadpole Care: If you do attempt breeding, you will need to provide a separate tank or tub for the tadpoles, with plenty of space and proper filtration to avoid water stagnation. The tadpoles will undergo metamorphosis and transform into juvenile frogs over the course of several weeks.

• Calm & Slow: Pacman frogs are generally calm and lethargic during the day, spending most of their time buried in the substrate or resting in their hide. When they’re hungry, they’ll actively hunt down their prey, but they are otherwise not very active.
• Aggressive Feeding: Pacman frogs are voracious eaters and have large mouths that can sometimes appear out of proportion to their body size. They are sit-and-wait predators, so they’ll patiently wait for prey to come near their mouth before striking. They have strong jaws and are capable of swallowing prey that is much larger than their head, so take care to only offer appropriately sized food.
• Docile with Humans: While not particularly interactive, Pacman frogs can become accustomed to their keeper’s presence. However, because they prefer to remain hidden, they’re best appreciated from a distance rather than through constant handling or interaction.

• Avoid Toxins: Pacman frogs have sensitive skin, so it’s important to avoid using chemicals, pesticides, or soaps near their habitat. Always wash your hands before and after handling your frog to avoid transferring oils or toxins from your skin.
• Escape-Proof Enclosure: Make sure the enclosure is secure and cannot be easily tipped over. While Pacman frogs are not escape artists, they can sometimes find ways out if the enclosure is not well secured. Double-check that any lid or screen is tight-fitting.

Pacman frogs are low-maintenance amphibians that make fascinating and unique pets for reptile and amphibian enthusiasts. With proper care, a suitable environment, and a diet of live prey, these frogs can thrive for many years in captivity. Their docile nature, colorful appearance, and interesting behavior make them a rewarding pet to observe. Just ensure they have a properly maintained, humid environment, and you’ll enjoy a healthy and happy Pacman frog for years to come!