🐸 Top 10 Pacman Frog Facts You Didn’t Know
Weird, Wild, and Wonderful Insights Into Your Chubby Amphibian Friend
Top 10 Pacman Frog Facts - At a Glance
Pacman frogs are more than just adorable, round amphibians. From their shockingly strong bite to their tendency to eat their own skin, these frogs are full of surprises. This list of 10 lesser-known facts will help you better understand and appreciate your pet’s strange but fascinating biology.
Pacman frogs (Ceratophrys spp.) are among the most popular amphibians in the pet trade—and for good reason. They’re low-maintenance, quirky, and undeniably charming. But how much do you really know about these chubby burrowers?
Whether you’re a new owner or just fascinated by amphibians, here are 10 mind-blowing facts that may surprise you.
1. They’re Named After a Video Game
Yes, really! Pacman frogs get their name from the iconic video game character Pac-Man because of their round shape and huge mouth—which they use to gobble up prey whole.
Their mouth makes up nearly half the size of their body!
2. They Have a Surprisingly Strong Bite
Don’t let the chubby cheeks fool you—Pacman frogs have one of the strongest bite forces among amphibians. Large adults can draw blood if they bite a finger.
👉 Handling Pacman Frogs: Should You or Shouldn’t You?
3. They Can Eat Prey Their Own Size
Pacman frogs are ambush predators that can swallow prey nearly the size of their own body, including mice, frogs, lizards, and large insects. That said, moderation is key.
👉 What Do Pacman Frogs Eat? Complete Feeding Guide
4. They Can Enter a Dormant State (Brumation)
During cooler months, Pacman frogs may slow down dramatically and burrow for days or even weeks. This brumation period mimics a hibernation-like state in the wild.
👉 Brumation in Pacman Frogs: Do They Hibernate?
5. They Eat Their Own Skin
After shedding, Pacman frogs often eat their old skin. It may seem gross, but it’s completely natural—and packed with nutrients.
6. Only Males Croak
If your frog is making noise, it’s likely a male. Pacman frogs croak, grunt, or growl—especially during mating season or after misting.
👉 Do Pacman Frogs Croak? Understanding Their Sounds
7. They Spend Most of Their Lives Buried
Pacman frogs are burrowers, not climbers. They’ll dig down into the substrate and sit still for hours—or even days—waiting for food.
👉 Pacman Frog Tank Setup for Beginners
8. They Should Never Have Tank Mates
Despite their cute appearance, Pacman frogs are cannibalistic. They should always be housed alone to prevent serious injury or death.
👉 Top 5 Pacman Frog Tank Mates (and Why It’s Risky)
9. They Absorb Water (and Chemicals) Through Their Skin
Pacman frogs don’t drink through their mouths. Instead, they absorb water through a patch on their belly. This makes them highly sensitive to toxins, so only dechlorinated water and amphibian-safe cleaning products should be used.
👉 How to Clean a Pacman Frog Tank Safely
10. They Grow Fast—and Live Long
Pacman frogs can reach 4–7 inches in size within their first year and live 6–10 years in captivity, with some reaching 15 years when properly cared for.
Final Thoughts
Pacman frogs are full of quirks and surprises—from their loud croaks to their impressive feeding behavior. The more you know about these unique amphibians, the better care you can provide—and the more you'll enjoy keeping them as a pet.
🙋♀️ FAQ: Fun Frog Facts
Q: Can Pacman frogs see well?
A: They have good vision, especially in low light. They’re ambush predators that use sight to catch moving prey.
Q: Do they recognize their owners?
A: Not quite, but they may associate you with feeding time and respond to movement or vibrations.
Q: Are there different colors?
A: Yes! Pacman frogs come in many morphs, including albino, strawberry, and fantasy.