Origin
Osteopilus septentrionalis or Cuban treefrog is native to Cuba, Isla de la Juventud, Bahamas and the Cayman Islands.

Life Cycle
It is a very large warty treefrog that can grow 1.1-6.5 in. (2.8-16.5 cm) long, measured from snout to vent. It has large toepads typical to many treefrogs. The color of O. septentrionalis varies from gray to brown to olive-green to blue-green. It has the ability to change color. It is larger than species native to Florida and size is one of the easiest ways to distinguish it from native treefrog species. Noxious skin secretions may help protect it from predators such as birds and snakes. O. septentrionalis usually breed in the spring and summer, but in suitable conditions they may breed year round. Reproduction is usually stimulated by warm summer rains. Especially rain associated with tropical weather systems and intense thunderstorms. The number of eggs deposited by a female is related to her size, with larger females laying over 15,000 eggs per season. Any site without predatory fish is suitable for breeding.

Distribution
O. septentrionalis has established a breed population in Florida, but it is believed that they have the ability to expand their range into other southeastern states. It has been found in other states as stowaways in shipments of plants.

Control Efforts
O. septentrionalis prey on native frogs and toads. It competes with native species for the available resources both as adults and as tadpoles. If you are sure of the identity, then humane euthanizing can help control this species around your home.

https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/uw259
https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/nonnatives/amphibians/frogs-and-toads/cuban-treefrog/

Resources

• Florida's Exotic Wildlife Species Detail - Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
• Non-Native Aquatic Species in the Gulf of Mexico and South Atlantic Regions - Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission
• Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database - U.S. Geological Survey
• The Cuban Treefrog in Florida - University of Florida

Selected Images

Maps

Invasive Listing Sources

• Everglades Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area
• Invasive Species of Concern in Georgia
• Nonnative Invasive Species in Southern Forest and Grassland Ecosystems

References