Albino Bullfrog

Rana catesbeiana

Description

The largest of the North American frogs, bullfrogs are so named due to their characteristic call often described as "jug-o-rum" resembling the voice of a ruminant far more than an anuran. Albino bullfrogs range in color from a bright yellow to a fiery orange, with deep red eyes. A fully-grown bullfrog can be more than 8 inches (20 centimeters) in length. In captivity they have lived more than 14 years.

Natural Habitat

Bullfrogs are originally native to the eastern seaboard of the United States, but have subsequently become widely distributed globally. Due to their tendency to leap into the water at the approach of perceived danger, bullfrogs are rarely found far from a permanent water source. Because bullfrogs are extraordinarily hearty and consume virtually anything, they have become established globally.

Artificial Habitat

Because of their size and flight response (see above), bullfrogs need ample space in order to thrive. While it is perfectly acceptable to raise a baby bullfrog in a ten-gallon aquarium, sub-adult (between 2-3 inches/5-8 centimeters) and adult (> 4.5 inches/11 centimeters) bullfrogs should have substantially larger enclosures. Because bullfrogs spend a majority of their time in or very near water, the majority of their artificial habitat should be water. An ideal situation would provide floating basking spots (lilies, water hyacinth, water lettuce, Styrofoam, etc.) with a watery surrounding. An enclosure that is 2/3-3/4 water with a small land area is also sufficient. Bullfrogs are happiest when they can fully submerge themselves in the water, so this should be taken into account when deciding on a water depth. Albino bullfrogs can also make a handsome addition to koi ponds and water gardens, provided that there is adequate shelter from predators (i.e. deep water and/or underwater hiding spaces).

Diet

Bullfrogs are voracious eaters and consume virtually anything they can fit into their mouths (see caveats below), including but not limited to; land snails, worms, insects, rodents, birds, snakes and other (usually) smaller frogs. In captivity they can be fed virtually anything, but crickets, mice and earthworms seem to be favorites. As with all frog species food items should be dusted with a vitamin and mineral supplement to ensure good nutrition.

Caveats

Bullfrogs are a very hearty pet frog primarily because of their environmental adaptability and their seemingly limitless diet. Indeed bullfrogs are often maligned as having supplanted native species due to their versatility and gluttony. While their reputation as "invasive exotics" is probably overplayed, bullfrogs will eat other smaller animals whenever given the opportunity. Thus, they should not be housed with other smaller animals including smaller bullfrogs.

Although in our experience bullfrogs are not messier than other similarly sized frogs, because they spend the majority of their time in the water (where they both eat and defecate) they are more susceptible to water toxicity, so frequent water changes are necessary. Types and amount of filtration, water circulation and water volume all play roles in the frequency of water changes.

If you plan to house your bullfrog outside, it is important to recognize that albino bullfrogs are very obvious to predators. Whereas a normal bullfrog may not be obvious beneath 6 inches (15 centimeters) of water, a bright yellow bullfrog is visible beneath more than four feet of water! This problem can be alleviated by providing adequate shelter and hiding spaces for your frog.