Hello All new to Frogs/toads need some help

[SethD]

I would really prefer to get them from a breeder as opposed to pet----- so i know they are not wild caught. Or if not does anyone have any ideas where i might be able to find some captive bred FB's?

It is possible you could get lucky and find some CB firebellies but it is not very likely. Breeding them isn't very difficult, you see CB frogs around occasionally, but most people don't bother given that wc's are readily available for as little as $5.00 or so. There is rarely much interest in captive breeding very inexpensive frogs for obvious reasons.

[Jace]

Unfortunately, like SethD has already said, it might be kind of hard to find CB Fire-bellies. So, your main goal is just to make sure that you pick healthy ones. Look for bright colours, bright eyes of even size (any eyes that look swelled out, stay away from!), bodies that are filled out but not so large they look bloated or keeps them from moving properly. I have come across some very skinny toads, and it would be best to stay away from ones that are obviously malnourished. They are a very curious, active frog, so they should be all over the place, especially if a hand drops into their enclosure. Their bellies should be a bright colour. Be sure to wash your hands with hot water before handling them and afterwards-remember, they will ooze toxins and some people do have reactions to it. If you can, look at several together and you will be able to see the variety of patterns available and the rich shades of green and brown they can come in. I've included a picture of my two-tone I found a few months ago I named Lichen-one of two females I have-to give you an idea of what combinations are in store. These are a great little toad and it's great to hear that you have chosen to give them a shot. Enjoy-and remember to post pics for all us nosy types!!

[AdamRiggs]

thanks again for the help guys i am still leaning towards FB's but am a little concerned about the whole Wild caught thing. I have tried a bunch of different vets around here and discovered that when it comes to cats and dogs they are fine but when it comes to reptiles and amphibians i end up paying $80 per visit for them to listen to whats going on and print me out a care sheet even thought i have read 1000 care sheets and follow directions down to the last detail in terms of husbandry.

Anyways i am still leaning to FB's like i said but after doing a little research on good beginner animals i am wondering if perhaps a whites tree frog might be a decent option. I realize i would have to buy a bigger viv once it grows up a little but people seem to love them and a lot of care sheets actually recommended them for beginners, plus it sounds like i could still make an interesting viv. Anyone know how readily available these are captive bred? and beginner friendly?

[Tropicok]

Adam, it gets into a vicious cycle when buying CB vs. WC. The frogs are someplace For Sale and I would rather see them purchased by someone who has done research and will provide a good home than an impulse buyer who will just let them die. Of course, this is going to happen sometimes. The reptile store I frequent advised me not to buy a veiled chameleon a couple of years ago because they knew I wasn't ready. Today they make sure I am aware of what's for sale knowing I can handle it or won't buy it at all. It's a hard fact that fire-bellies are usually about $5 apiece. A lot of fun for little money and a buyer hasn't lost a big investment with the first frog.

[SethD]

In the case of FBT's buying wc isn't really hurting the species in the wild so that shouldn't be worried about. They are an adaptable species and from what I understand huge numbers live and breed in the rice paddies(man made habitat) and collection for the trade doesn't seem to be an issue. Huge numbers have been regularly imported for years and years without the population suffering.