Introduction and questions

[Tidal]

Hi everyone

For the past few months I've been considering getting some frogs and have spent a lot of time reading books and care sheets, and forums to see what experiences other people have had. At first I was drawn to golden dart frogs and the elaborate vivariums people create for them. Some day I hope to keep some, but as I have no prior experience with amphibians I'd like to begin with a less demanding species and see how things go. I think Gray tree frogs would be a good species to start with, and I'm considering getting several, perhaps three or four to have a mix of personalities.

The first thing I'll need to decide is what kind of enclosure to get. I've found two possible options. The first is an Exo Terra glass terrarium with dimensions of 18" x 18" x 24". The other is a VivExotic wood vivarium with dimensions of 36" x 18.5" x 21", nearly twice as large as the Exo Terra although slightly less tall. Even the 48" version of the VivExotic is about the same price as the Exo Terra. Would a wood vivarium be suitable for gray tree frogs, or is glass a much better choice despite the smaller size?

I'll probably have many other questions later, but understanding this one would be of great help for now. I'm looking forward to learning all that I can from the forum.

[Sierra]

I think that glass is better for tree frogs, but as long as you are able to maintain it, I think wood would be fine. Tree frogs will always enjoy height over width. I have a 18x18x24 Exo Terra and I love it. The maintenance is really easy. I know this probably isn't much help, but as long as you make sure there is enough space for the amount of frogs you are going to have, and that there is substantial height, your frogs will be happy! Have you considered a Whites tree frog?

[Tidal]

Hi Sierra. The Exo Terra does look easiest to maintain. Is the glass pretty strong? I did read about various species and ultimately gray tree frogs appeal to me the most.

[Kurt]

I would go with glass, as wood may not agree with the humidity. Also Exoterra makes even bigger enclosures. Either way make sure the frogs have plenty of ventilation.

[Sierra]

I've never had any problems with the glass not being strong enough, so you should be covered there

[Mentat]

Welcome to Frog Forum Tidal! Are you in the UK? Ask because visited the VivExotic site and those vivariums are made in UK. From there website read they are made from processed chipboard and laminated with melamine (a plastic). They do recommend that you seal your vivarium with silicon once constructed to prevent chipboard from swelling and make it waterproof. Have not lifted one; but in my experience all processed wood products are heavier than natural wood of similar size and thickness.

Glass made terrariums like Exo-Terras are sturdy, relatively lightweight (compared to same size glass aquariums and wood vivariums), and can even hold a few inches of water if desired. They do cost more but sometimes can be bought on sale or maybe find a used one in good condition. Good luck!