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Waxy Monkey Tree Frog

Phyllomedusa sauvagii

Advanced Family Phyllomedusidae

A slow, waxy climber from dry forest — needs warmth, UVB and specialist care.

✅ We have a full, fact-checked care sheet for the Waxy Monkey Tree Frog.

Open the Waxy Monkey Tree Frog care sheet →

📋 At a glance

Tank
Tall arboreal 18×18×24 in (1–2), sturdy branches
Temp
72–80°F day (76 ideal), basking 85–90°F · NEVER over 90°F
Humidity
40–70% (thrives 50–60%) — a drier tree frog
Food
Gut-loaded, calcium-dusted crickets
Lifespan
5–8+ years

✅ Its waxy coat lets it thrive in drier, brighter conditions than most frogs — oddly forgiving on humidity.

🛒 Before you buy

  • A tall vivarium with sturdy climbing branches
  • A basking spot (85–90°F) + a low-level UVB bulb
  • Good ventilation and a water dish
  • Calcium + D3 supplement

A healthy one: Pale-green with a waxy sheen · deliberate, slow movements · good weight · clear eyes.

🚨 See a vet / act now if…

  • Not eating, or weight loss
  • Dull, dry, flaking skin
  • Listlessness or bloating
  • Gasping

⛔ Never

  • Temperatures over 90°F
  • A stagnant, over-wet tank
  • Skipping UVB

Common waxy monkey tree frog questions

How hard are Waxy Monkey Tree Frogs to keep — are they good for beginners?

Advanced. A slow, waxy, arid-adapted climber — needs warmth, a basking spot and UVB.

What do Waxy Monkey Tree Frogs eat?

Gut-loaded, calcium-dusted crickets

What size tank do Waxy Monkey Tree Frogs need?

Tall arboreal 18×18×24 in (1–2), sturdy branches

What temperature do Waxy Monkey Tree Frogs need?

72–80°F day (76 ideal), basking 85–90°F · NEVER over 90°F

What humidity do Waxy Monkey Tree Frogs need?

40–70% (thrives 50–60%) — a drier tree frog

How long do Waxy Monkey Tree Frogs live?

5–8+ years

What are the signs Waxy Monkey Tree Frogs are sick?

See an exotics vet if you notice: Not eating, or weight loss; Dull, dry, flaking skin; Listlessness or bloating; Gasping.

🧠 Myths, kindly busted

Common myths about this kind of amphibian, gently corrected — each one checked against a named source, never a pet-shop rumour.

“Tree frogs are easy, low-maintenance starter pets.”

They are rewarding, but they do take real work: daily misting to hold humidity, regular cleaning, and a steady supply of live insects. Wonderful once set up — just not effortless. — Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital (Dr. Gregory Rich, DVM)

“You can handle a tree frog like a hamster.”

A frog's skin is delicate and permeable, so oils, salts and soap on our hands can harm it. Handle only when needed, with moistened, powder-free gloves or clean, wet hands — it is very much a look-don't-hold pet. — PetMD (Maria Zayas, DVM)

“A tree frog can live in a small, flat tank.”

Tree frogs are arboreal climbers that need a tall enclosure with branches and plants to climb, not just floor space. Giving them height lets them behave naturally. — Agriculture Victoria — Code of Practice for Amphibians in Captivity

🐸 Did you know? — Waxy Monkey Tree Frog fun facts

Little true delights about the waxy monkey tree frog — each one checked against a named source, no old-wives' trivia.

More amphibian fun facts →

Free tools for the waxy monkey tree frog

Calm, honest help — each one knows when to say "see a vet."

📚 More tree frogs guides

🎓 Ready to go deeper?

Past the basics — genetics & morphs, responsible breeding, tankmates, and advanced setups. Same plain voice, no ceiling:

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