What Is a Horned Frog?

The horned frog, also known as the ceratophrys, is a genus of South American frog. There are many species of this type of frog, but only two species are commonly kept as pets. These are Ceratophrys ornata, also known as the Argentine or ornate horned frog, and Ceratophyrs cranwelli, also known as Cranwell's horned frog. These frogs are typically rather large, reaching lengths of 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) and weighing up to 4.4 pounds (2 kilograms). These frogs may be green, orange, yellow or brown with black or red splotches, and albino horned frogs are also available.

These frogs are often known as Pac-man frogs, because they typically have very large mouths. In the wild, these frogs normally hunt by secreting themselves under leaves, grasses or moss on the forest floor and snatching prey as it walks by. They normally feed on insects, worms, small reptiles, small mammals, and other frogs, even other horned frogs. They can usually be sustained in captivity with a diet of worms, crickets, small mice, and small fish. Horned frogs will often feed indiscriminately if allowed, and can become overweight without dietary controls.

Caring for a horned frog usually involves keeping it in a temperature- and humidity-regulated tank, at an ideal temperature of 77 to 82.4 degrees Fahrenheit (25 to 28 degrees Celsius). This species of frog normally regulates its own body temperature by burrowing beneath the soil when it becomes too warm or dry. A tank lined with chemical-free soil, paper towels, coconut husk, or peat moss can provide an adequate habitat for the captive horned frog. Misting the tank's lining with fresh, chlorine-free water every few days can help provide the moisture the frog needs to keep itself cool and its skin moist.

These frogs generally can't swim well, but like to wet themselves regularly, so most people who keep them as pets provide a shallow container of water for the frog's convenience. Many frogs will use this bowl of water as a toilet area, so horned frog enthusiasts are generally advised to change the water daily. Cleaning the tank itself is generally advised every 60 to 90 days. These frogs can absorb toxins through their skins, so it's considered important to rinse the tank thoroughly after cleaning to remove all chemical residues from the environment. Handling these frogs is generally considered threatening to their well-being, since dirt, residue, and skin oils on the hands can harm them.

A horned frog, often mistaken for a frog, is actually a type of lizard from the genus Phrynosoma, commonly known as horned lizards. They are named for the prominent horn-like structures on their heads, which serve as a defense mechanism. These creatures are native to North and Central America and are adapted to arid or semi-arid environments.

Horned frogs are frequently confused with true frogs due to their common name and rounded body shape, which superficially resembles that of a frog. However, horned frogs are reptiles with scales, claws, and the ability to regulate their body temperature externally, distinguishing them from amphibious true frogs that have moist skin and require water or a moist environment to survive.

Horned frogs are primarily insectivores, feasting on a diet of ants, beetles, and other small insects. Their hunting strategy involves lying in wait, camouflaged against the desert terrain, and ambushing prey as it passes by. They have been observed to consume up to 70% of their body weight in one meal, according to research on their feeding habits.

Horned frogs have several defense strategies. Their horns and camouflaged appearance help them blend into their surroundings, making them less visible to predators. When threatened, they can inflate their bodies to appear larger and more intimidating. Some species can even squirt blood from their eyes as a startling and distasteful deterrent to would-be attackers.

Some species of horned frogs are considered at risk due to habitat loss, pet trade, and environmental changes. The Texas horned lizard, for instance, is listed as a threatened species in the state of Texas. Conservation efforts are in place to protect these unique reptiles and their habitats, ensuring their survival for future generations.

While horned frogs can be kept as pets, they require specific care that replicates their natural habitat, including a terrarium with appropriate heating and lighting, a diet of live insects, and low-stress handling. Potential owners should thoroughly research their care requirements and consider the ethical implications of keeping wild animals as pets before making the commitment.