The Essentials Frog Fortress: Ground Version
The Essentials Frog Fortress: Ground Version
Preorder • Expected delivery: Spring 2026
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The Essential • Ground Froggy Fort is a complete, habitat-first system designed to support native frogs where people live.
It focuses on the biological needs frogs rely on most - shelter, water access, and natural feeding opportunities - without cameras, apps, or connectivity.
This is a fully functional conservation habitat designed to work quietly as part of its environment.
Available for preorder.
Expected delivery: Spring 2026.
What the Essential • Ground Provides
The Essential • Ground model is designed to work quietly and reliably as part of its environment.
It includes:
- Protective shelter that helps reduce heat stress, dehydration, and predation
- Ground-level access suited for frogs and toads that prefer terrestrial movement
- Water access shaped for amphibian safety and hydration
- Insect-attracting lights that support natural feeding behavior
- Low-impact exterior lighting that softly illuminates the dome and dwell area for in-person viewing
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Preset micro-timers that automatically manage UV insect-attracting lights and exterior viewing lights on biologically appropriate schedules, without apps or connectivity
Once installed, the habitat operates independently - supporting frogs day and night without ongoing management.
Designed for Ground-Level Habitat Use
Unlike elevated or mounted habitats, the Ground version is designed to sit directly within the landscape - where many frogs naturally hunt, rest, shelter, and overwinter.
While it supports ground-oriented species such as toads, it is also commonly used by tree frog species that spend significant time at ground level, especially near vegetation, rocks, and moisture-rich areas.
By connecting two half-spheres into a full-sphere structure, this model creates a larger, stable refuge that blends naturally into garden beds, shaded areas, and landscape edges - offering shelter that frogs can use seasonally and opportunistically.
It is well-suited for placement near:
- Shrubs, bushes, and low tree cover
- Natural ground cover such as mulch or leaf litter
- Moist soil, plants, or nearby water sources
This design supports a wide range of native frog behaviors throughout the year.
Who This Model Is For
The Essential • Ground model is ideal for people who want to support native amphibians in a simple, meaningful way.
It’s well-suited for:
- Homeowners and gardeners
- Families interested in conservation without added technology
- Anyone seeking a low-maintenance habitat solution
- No technical expertise required
No screens.
No subscriptions.
No remote monitoring - just habitat doing what it does best.
Development & Production Status
This product was successfully funded on Kickstarter and is currently in advanced product development and testing, with production preparations underway.
Manufacturing is planned to begin in the near future as final validation is completed.
Preorders help increase production volume, which improves manufacturing efficiency, supports better pricing, and enables additional accessories and future habitat innovations to be developed and released.
Installation
Installation is simple and requires no tools.
Place the habitat directly on the ground in a shaded or partially shaded area near plants or existing moisture sources. Once positioned, the habitat is ready to support visiting frogs and toads. (For more information download the more detailed Installation Instructions below.)
Installation Instructions
Installation Instructions
Installation Instructions for Froggy Forts Ground Version
Materials Needed:
- Froggy Forts Ground Version
- Shovel (optional for leveling ground)
- Native plants, rocks (optional for decoration and habitat enhancement)
- Small water feature (optional, but highly recommended)
Installation Steps:
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Choose a Location:
- Select a level area in your yard, such as a garden bed, near bushes, or under trees. Ensure the location provides shade and isn’t exposed to direct sunlight, as frogs prefer cooler, darker spots during the day.
- Optional: If the ground is uneven, use a shovel to level the area before placing the fort.
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Position the Frog Fortress:
- Gently place the Froggy Forts Ground Version on the level ground. Ensure it sits flat and stable.
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Enhance the Surroundings:
- Plant native species around the Frog Fortress to create a natural, welcoming environment for frogs and other wildlife.
- Add rocks around the fort to provide additional cover and hiding spots for amphibians. If you’d like to go a step further, consider adding a small water feature—frogs love having access to water, and this addition would make them very, very happy!
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Select Ideal Spots:
- Position the Frog Fortress near garden plants or under shrubs to give frogs a place to hide and stay cool during the day. Avoid placing it in areas prone to direct sunlight.
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Maintain and Monitor:
- Check the fort occasionally for cleanliness and water levels. Clean the water features and hiding spots as needed to maintain a healthy environment for your frogs.
Adding a water feature alongside the rocks and plants will make your Frog Fortress an even more attractive habitat for frogs, giving them a refreshing place to cool off and breed.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Cleaning & Maintenance
To maintain a healthy environment for your tree frogs in the Frog Fortress, regular cleaning and disinfection are essential. Follow these directions to keep the Frog Fortress clean and safe without using harmful chemicals.
Cleaning Frequency:
- Recommended Weekly Cleaning: Clean the Frog Fortress thoroughly once a week to prevent bacteria and mold growth.
Materials Needed:
- Mild, frog-safe disinfectant (such as a reptile-safe cleaner)
- Dechlorinated water
- Soft brush or sponge
- Clean cloth or paper towels
Cleaning Steps:
- Prepare the Cleaning Area:
- Gather all cleaning materials and prepare a space to temporarily house your frogs while cleaning.
- Remove Frogs - Carefully:
- Carefully remove the frogs with as little stress as possible. Upon opening the Frog Fortress, a little noise or soft touch will prompt them to hop out of the Fort.
- Remove any decorations, plants, and the sponge from the Frog Fortress.
- Drain Water and Disassemble:
- Empty any water from the wading pools or other areas.
- Disassemble any removable parts of the Frog Fortress to clean each component thoroughly.
- Prepare Cleaning Solution:
- Mix a mild, frog-safe disinfectant with warm water according to the product instructions. Avoid using harsh chemicals or soaps that could harm the frogs.
- Clean the Frog Fortress:
- Scrub all plastic surfaces of the Frog Fortress with the cleaning solution using a soft brush or sponge. Focus on areas with visible dirt, algae, or residue.
- Pay special attention to corners and crevices where bacteria and mold can accumulate.
- Rinse Thoroughly:
- Rinse all parts of the Frog Fortress thoroughly with clean, dechlorinated water to remove any traces of the cleaning solution.
- Ensure no residue remains, as it can be harmful to your frogs.
- Clean the Sponge and Decorations:
- Rinse the sponge in dechlorinated water and soak it in the mild disinfectant solution. Rinse thoroughly afterward.
- Clean any decorations with the same solution and rinse well. Artificial plants can be scrubbed, while live plants should be gently rinsed to avoid damage.
- Reassemble and Refill:
- Reassemble the Frog Fortress and fill the wading pools with fresh, dechlorinated water.
- Place the cleaned sponge back into the habitat.
- Return the Frogs:
- Once the Frog Fortress is clean and reassembled, the frogs will likely return during the evening as it gets dark.
Additional Tips:
- Monitor Water Quality: Regularly check the water quality in the wading pools and change it if it appears dirty or cloudy.
- Maintain Proper Ventilation: Ensure the Frog Fortress has adequate ventilation to reduce humidity and prevent mold growth.
By following these directions, you can keep the Frog Fortress clean and safe for your frogs, providing them with a healthy and enjoyable environment.
Why Habitat Matters
Frogs depend on a delicate balance of water, shelter, insects, and temperature stability. In many neighborhoods, these conditions have been disrupted by development, drainage, and the loss of natural microhabitats.
Even small, well-designed habitat features can help restore what has been lost - creating places for frogs to rest, hydrate, feed, and recover.
Froggy Forts are designed to integrate into these backyard ecosystems, supporting native frogs where people live.
Let Nature Lead
Essential Froggy Forts are designed to work quietly in the background — providing shelter, water access, and natural feeding opportunities without requiring attention or interaction.
There are no screens, controls, or alerts. Once installed, the habitat becomes part of the landscape, allowing frogs to use it on their own terms and on their own schedule.