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Are you considering adopting a Pacman frog as a pet? Have you heard that Pacman frogs may bite? If so, then you’ve come to the right place!
In this article, we’ll take a look at Pacman frogs, whether or not they bite, and more! Let’s get started!
What is a Pacman Frog?
Have you heard of the video game called Pacman? If so, then you may have some clue on why these frogs are called Pacman! It’s because they resemble the main character in the Pacman game! Pacman frogs are very rounded and have large mouths, like that game character.
This frog also goes by other names such as the Ornate horned frog, South American horned frog, Argentine horned frog, Ornate Pacman frog, and Argentine wide-mouthed frog. They’re native to South America and grow to about 6 inches long, with the females being larger than the males. Pacman frogs can live from seven to ten years!
Pacman frogs are amphibians, just like other frogs; however, rather than living in water, they live mostly on land. However, they do tend to live in a humid environment, such as in damp leaf litter.
These frogs are very popular as pets! They’re pretty easy to care for but are not the best for people who prefer interactive pets. Pacman frogs like to do their own thing and are not very good for handling.
Pacman frogs are usually pretty laid back, and they have a huge appetite. They can eat just about anything since their mouths are so large!
Do Pacman Frogs Bite?
Yes, they can bite. However, they usually only bite when they feel threatened. This is part of their defensive mechanism in the wild. Pet Pacman frogs can also bite, but it’s rare they will bite their pet parent.
Another reason the frog may bite is because he’s hungry. Pacman frogs have a voracious appetite! When you give him food, he may jump at the food and get your finger instead. Experts recommend feeding these frogs using a pair of tongs. It’s much safer, and you won’t be bitten!
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Ask a Vet Live NowDoes the Pacman Frog Bite Hurt?
Yes, the frog’s bite hurts. This is because Pacman frogs have strong jaws and teeth. The frog’s bite may also draw blood, but the bite will not be serious.
These frogs also tend to latch onto their food. If they happen to get your finger, then you’ll need to gently remove the frog. Don’t shake or try to throw the frog off. Instead, you may need to gently work your finger out of his mouth. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!
One method to get the frog off your finger is to put him under running water. But you can’t use tap water for this, as it contains chlorine and other chemicals that can make the frog very sick. Instead, use dechlorinated water and pour this over the frog. Be sure to hold him over his habitat. Then, when he lets go, he’ll jump into his home rather than onto the floor!
Why Does a Pacman Frog Have Teeth?
Like other types of frogs, the Pacman frog does have teeth. In most frogs, the teeth are very small and are only used to help hold onto the prey. Frogs don’t chew their food as we do.
The frog’s teeth are situated on the roof of the mouth and are called vomerine teeth. They’re used only to grip their prey rather than chewing.
Pacman frogs also have maxillary teeth, which are located on the top of their jaws. These look similar to the vomerine teeth and serve the same function. They work to hold onto the frog’s prey.
Is the Pacman Frog Poisonous?
While the bite may be a little painful, thankfully, the frogs are not poisonous. However, if the frog does draw blood, then you’ll need to clean the wound with warm water and soap. Dry the bite off, and then apply antibiotic ointment to ensure the bite doesn’t become infected.
What Do Pacman Frogs Eat?
Pacman frogs have a varied diet. This includes:
- Worms
- Fish (such as feeder guppies or minnows)
- Chicken
- Rodents
- Beef
- Pork
- Other frogs
- Small rodents
- And more
Pacman frogs tend to prefer their prey live. It’s easy to find their food at pet shops or even at the grocery store.
How to Choose a Pacman Frog
When it comes to buying a Pacman frog, here are some tips to help you find a healthy, happy frog:
- Look for frogs that are alert, have clear eyes, and healthy-looking skin.
- Avoid frogs that have breathing problems or seem lethargic.
- Avoid Pacman frogs that look like they’re bloated (could be a sign of illness).
It’s also best to buy your frog from a breeder rather than an individual or even a pet shop. This is because captive-bred frogs are healthier and are used to being kept. On the other hand, wild frogs don’t do as well in captivity, and they may be infected with parasites and other nasties.
Pacman Frog Habitat
Your Pacman frog will need a terrarium that’s large enough for him to be comfortable. However, it doesn’t have to be super large, as these frogs are not very active. A 20-gallon tank may be a great home for one of these frogs.
Along with the terrarium, you’ll want to make sure to buy a cage topper. This ensures the frog stays in the enclosure and doesn’t jump out! The topper also keeps the humidity in the tank while maintaining the habitat’s temperature.
In addition, these frogs prefer to live alone. If you put other frogs in with them, the Pacman frog will eat the other frogs.
You can use moss and plants in the habitat and the right substrate (which should stay moist without being soaked). Your frog will also be thankful if you buy a heater to keep his temperature regulated. Pacman frogs prefer a temperature around 82F during the day and 78F during the night.
Pacman frogs kept as pets will also need a UVA/UVB light to keep him on a regular life cycle.
Summing It Up
There you have it! Pacman frogs make great pets for people who don’t expect the frog to be interactive. This is a frog that also likes to live alone and “do his own thing.” However, Pacman frogs can give you a hard bite, so be careful when handling your Pacman frog!
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Kim
Kim is a talented author, who loves animals especially dogs. She engaged in writing books and articles relating to animals a decade ago. Kim resides in Chicago with her husband and son. The family is the proud owner of a dog and a parrot (Jack and Lily). Kim wanted more than these two pets, but her husband put his foot down... She often visits elementary schools to talk to the kids about what she learned about pets and how they could learn from them.
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