Oriental Fire Bellied Toad
Care Sheet
The Oriental Fire-Bellied Toad is a small, brightly coloured amphibian native to East Asia. This species is popular among amphibian enthusiasts for its unique appearance and active behaviour.
Oriental Fire-Bellied Toads are known for their toxic skin secretions used as a defence mechanism.
Unlike other frogs such as dart frogs, who get most of their toxin from the food they eat, fire-bellied toads are able to create their own toxin. Although this does not overly affect humans, it can cause skin and eye irritation if not handled properly. Always use gloves when handling your frog.
HANDLING YOUR FROG:
Toads should be handled minimally, as they are sensitive to stress and can secrete toxins. When necessary, use gentle handling techniques and always wash hands before and after to prevent the spread of bacteria.
When picking up your frog, always ensure you are in an enclosed area to prevent escape. Whilst cleaning we recommend you move your frog carefully into a plastic tub whilst you clean the tank.
SEXING YOUR FROG
Fire-bellied Toads (Bombina sp.) can be hard to sex before they are fully grown. Once they are sexually mature, males can be told apart from females by the sound they make (a “barking” call) and the fact that they have nuptial pads on their first and second fingers.
Males are usually flatter and smaller than females, who are usually rounder and bigger. Males also act territorially by doing things like shaking or hitting the water to scare off other males.
HEALTH CHECK
Eyes– Eyes should be clear and both open wide. Occasionally frogs develop eye infections which can be caused by the toxins in the substrate from it not being cleaned enough or from too much humidity in the enclosure. You can use honey diluted in non-chlorinated water on a cotton pad to bathe the eye. To prevent change substrate more regularly and ensure that humidity levels are correct.
Legs– Legs should be strong and your frog should be able to jump around. Frogs can suffer from MBD (metabolic bone disease) when they do not have enough calcium in their diet. MDB can be seen in frogs by the feet and legs looking disfigured or weak, along with the mouth gaping or hanging at the side. MDB is irreversible but adding calcium to the food twice a week will prevent further development.
Skin– Skin should look shiny and moist. If the frog does not have access to water or the enclosure is too dry you may notice a dry cocoon like shed which shows signs of the frog shutting down. Ensure the humidity in the enclosure is kept consistent and offer fresh dechlorinated water daily. Buy bottled water or leave tap water uncovered for 24-48 hours.
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