Scientific Name: Chiromantis xerampelina
Common Names: African Grey Tree Frog, Great Grey Tree Frog.
Distribution: North Africa.
Size: 4-9cm.
Sexing: The males of this species show pale nuptial pads on the first & second fingers of the fore limbs.
Colouration: Light brown - grey with slightly darker irregular markings.
Requirements: These large agile frogs require a relatively large terrarium something in the region of 24x18x18" would be adequate for an adult pair or a 36x18x18 for a group of 3-4 adults. They require a well-planted savannah / woodland border type set-up with a substrate of bark chips, topsoil & composted bark. Furnishings such as logs of varying thickness, cork bark and sturdy bushy plants can be arranged to provide a number of climbing, perching and hiding places. A medium sized water bowl must be provided with clean de-chlorinated or spring water. The tank will need to be heated to a temperature of 25-26°C during the day with a dip to 20°C at night this can be done with a heat-mat placed on the side of the tank controlled by a thermostat. It is not advisable to use spot / heat lamps with amphibians and so a separate light source should be provided by the means of a fluorescent tube, a 2-5% UVB tube may be used if you wish to do so but if a good supplemented diet is offered UVB lighting should not be needed.
Maintenance: Water will need changing daily to avoid the build up of ammonia and bacteria. Whilst changing the water it is a good idea to spot clean the tank and remove, clean, and replace any soiled items. At least once a month the entire terrarium and it's contents should be striped, cleaned, and sterilized using an amphibian friendly disinfectant.
Feeding: For adults a mixture of suitably sized insects including crickets, flies, locust, and moths should be fed every two-three days. A calcium and vitamin supplement should be used once weekly. Young frogs will take hatchling crickets and fruitflies. These should be fed every day and a calcium and vitamin supplement used two-three times a week.
