Pacman Frog Care Guide: Keeping Your Horned Frog Happy and Healthy

Published September 6, 2023 | By HInotarize

Pacman Frog Care

Caring for a Pacman frog, also known as a horned frog (Ceratophrys), requires attention to several crucial factors to ensure their health and well-being. Here are some important things to know about caring for a Pacman frog:

1. Enclosure Setup:
– Provide a spacious enclosure with a secure lid to prevent escapes. A 10-gallon tank is suitable for one adult frog.
– Use a substrate like coconut coir or organic potting soil, which maintains humidity and allows for burrowing.

Here are some options of tanks for your pacman frog and the different advantages of each type of enclosure:

Different Types of Tanks for Pacman Frogs

Type of Tank	Description	Pros	Cons
Glass Terrarium	Standard glass enclosures designed for reptiles and amphibians.	Clear visibility for observing your frog. Good insulation.	Heavier and more fragile than plastic or acrylic.
Plastic Bin	Plastic storage bins with secure lids, modified for ventilation.	Lightweight, easy to clean, and cost-effective.	Limited visibility due to opaque material.
Acrylic Tank	Clear acrylic containers specifically designed for amphibians.	Excellent visibility, lightweight, and durable.	More expensive than plastic bins.
Custom Enclosure	Purpose-built enclosures tailored to your frog’s specific needs.	Allows customization of size, shape, and features.	Can be expensive and may require DIY skills.
Paludarium	A specialized tank with both water and land areas, mimicking a natural habitat.	Ideal for species with semi-aquatic tendencies.	Complex setup and maintenance requirements.
Nano Tank	Small, compact tanks suitable for a single adult Pacman frog.	Space-efficient and can fit in smaller living spaces.	Limited room for decorating and adding enrichment.

Please note that the choice of tank may depend on factors such as the size of your Pacman frog, the space available, and your personal preferences. Each type of tank has its advantages and disadvantages, so consider what works best for your specific situation and the needs of your frog.

2. Temperature and Humidity:
– Keep a temperature range of 75-85°F (24-29°C) during the day, with a slight drop at night.
– Keep humidity levels between 50% and 80% by misting the enclosure regularly.

3. Lighting:
– Pacman frogs are primarily nocturnal and do not require UVB lighting. Provide a low-wattage incandescent bulb or a heat mat for warmth.

4. Feeding:
– Feed a varied diet of appropriately sized insects, such as crickets, roaches, earthworms, and occasionally small mice.
– Dust prey with a calcium and vitamin D3 supplement every other feeding.
– Adult frogs may eat less frequently, typically every 5-7 days.

Here are some of the different Types of Insects to feed Pacman Frogs:

Insect Type	Description	Nutritional Value	Feeding Frequency
Crickets	Commonly available, small to large in size.	Good source of protein and fiber.	Regularly, 2-3 times a week for adults.
Roaches	Various species like Dubia roaches, discoid roaches, etc.	High in protein and low in fat.	Regularly, 2-3 times a week for adults.
Worms (Mealworms, Superworms)	Soft-bodied and easy to digest.	High in protein and some fat.	Occasionally as a treat due to their fat content.
Earthworms	Live or pre-killed for larger Pacman frogs.	Rich in protein, calcium, and other nutrients.	Occasionally as part of a varied diet.
Waxworms	Soft, fatty larvae of wax moths.	High in fat, suitable as an occasional treat.	Infrequently due to their high fat content.
Phoenix Worms (Black Soldier Fly Larvae)	Small, soft-bodied larvae.	High in calcium and low in fat.	Regularly, as they are a nutritious staple.
Cricket Eggs	Cricket eggs offer a different texture and nutritional profile.	Rich in protein and other nutrients.	Occasionally for variety.

5. Handling:
– Limit handling to a minimum, as Pacman frogs are sensitive to stress and have delicate skin. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling to avoid contamination.

6. Hydration:
– Provide a shallow, clean water dish large enough for the frog to soak in. Change the water regularly to maintain cleanliness.
– Pacman frogs may soak themselves to help with shedding their skin.

7. Hiding Spots:
– Include hides or shelters to allow the frog to burrow and feel secure.
– Provide live or fake plants for enrichment and aesthetics.

8. Cleaning and Maintenance:
– Clean the substrate and change it as needed to prevent the buildup of waste.
– Thoroughly clean and disinfect the enclosure periodically.

9. Health Monitoring:
– Watch for signs of illness, such as lethargy, weight loss, abnormal skin color, or difficulty breathing.
– If you suspect health issues, consult a veterinarian experienced with amphibians.

10. Breeding Considerations:
– Breeding Pacman frogs can be challenging and requires proper planning and care.
– Be prepared for the care of tadpoles, which involves a separate setup.

11. Safety Precautions:
– Handle food items with care to prevent accidental bites from prey insects.
– Be cautious when feeding larger prey, as it can sometimes injure or stress the frog.

12. Legal Considerations:
– Check your local regulations regarding the ownership and trade of amphibians. Some species may be subject to restrictions.

Remember that Pacman frogs have relatively long lifespans, often exceeding 10 years, so providing proper care is essential for their health and longevity. Always research and understand the specific requirements of your Pacman frog species, as care may vary slightly depending on the species and individual needs.