Question - My tree frog is sitting on the bottom of his terrarium . . .

[Kay]

I did not use the background that came with my terrarium, because I like to be able to see into the terrarium from all sides. It sits on the snack bar in between my kitchen and dining area. Do the frogs "need' something so they're not out in the open? Or are those backgrounds strictly for looks. I think I can fill up the terrarium with taller plants and vines or branches, without using a background unless it is better for the frogs.

[Giles]

I'd recommend at least a background, that may well be your problem, he doesnt feel safe because its too open for him up top. When i had my trio of whites a few weeks ago, i covered 2 out of the 4 sides until they became more confident, then removed the side piece and now they are fine, they even wait near the door in the evening sometiimes because they know its feeding time (I use the exo terra background in my viv, and i have no problems with it)

[Kay]

I'd recommend at least a background, that may well be your problem, he doesnt feel safe because its too open for him up top. When i had my trio of whites a few weeks ago, i covered 2 out of the 4 sides until they became more confident, then removed the side piece and now they are fine, they even wait near the door in the evening sometiimes because they know its feeding time (I use the exo terra background in my viv, and i have no problems with it)

I think you're correct. I had no idea they needed that security, but it makes sense. Then as Dalton suggested I can pin some of the plants to the background and help fill up the top of the terrarium.

I am going to make some changes in the terrarium and then I'll post another picture to see if there are any other suggestions. I really appreciate all the great suggestions!

[Treefrognewbie]

my frogs hunt for their crickets on the ground, but thats about it. and one time Marvin (my male RETF) slept close to the ground, with his butt in the water.

[Iceemn360]

In my experience the only time my red eyes spend a significant amount of the time on the ground is when they are being kept on the dryer side and are perhaps seeking moisture from the substrate. With higher humidity they go right back to the leaves/ perches/ sides of their vivarium.

[Kay]

In my experience the only time my red eyes spend a significant amount of the time on the ground is when they are being kept on the dryer side and are perhaps seeking moisture from the substrate. With higher humidity they go right back to the leaves/ perches/ sides of their vivarium.

You're right! A couple of days ago DonLisk recommended I mist him more, and mist the substrate too. Ever since I have started that, he's been back up at the top.

[Treefrognewbie]

its only been a couple times. but they always hunt on the ground, since the crickets stay down there.