What do you think?

[Cheryl]

Hi, I have a WC one-eyed frog, doing fine. He's hibernating and I'm keeping the room at 67 degrees (whole house). My question is.... does he need to hibernate, or could I place a reptile heating pad under the substrate so that he wakes up on his own? Is that being selfish on my part? I woke him when I changed his water, a week ago. I put him in the water for awhile and he pooped, then I fed him 3 med. crickets, took him out of the cage for awhile. When I was done I put him back in the water until he decided to burrow in the dirt. Hasn't moved since. Is this a good routine? I just bought some calcium powder for the crickets, haven't used it yet. I was going to feed him tonight and use the calcium. I guess I just want to be sure he won't die on me by not being wet enough or hungry. Please tell me what you think. Thanks. He's a southern leopard frog and the cutest thing.

[John]

He should be awake and active at 67. However, wild frogs that have seen a few winters are usually in a "rhythm" that may be hard to break. I would say if he's dozy in the mid 60s then hibernate him - plastic box with slightly moist substrate, something to hide under and put it in a cool room or outhouse (late 30s ideal) where the temperature doesn't get down to freezing and doesn't vary too much. Keep him there for 2 months or so and he should have it out of his system.

[Cheryl]

Thanks, John. Two months is a long time but I'll have to deal. Thanks so much!