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The Smart Tech Frog Fortress: Ground Version

The Smart Tech Frog Fortress: Ground Version

Preorder • Expected delivery: Spring 2026

$319.00 USD
$319.00 USD
Sale Sold out

The Smart Tech • Ground Froggy Fort combines complete habitat design with carefully governed technology that makes conservation visible, educational, and scientifically valuable - without putting control in the hands of the user.

Like all Froggy Forts, this model is built around the biological needs of native frogs and toads. Smart Tech models add cameras, sensors, and connectivity that allow people to observe and learn from frog activity while the system itself protects natural behavior.

The habitat always comes first.
Technology operates in service of ecology, not convenience.

Available for preorder.
Expected delivery: Spring 2026.

What the Smart Tech • Ground Provides

This model includes everything found in Essential Froggy Forts, with additional systems designed for observation, documentation, and responsible data collection.

Habitat & Lighting (Protected by Design)

  • Protective shelter that helps reduce heat stress, dehydration, and predation
  • Ground-level access suited for frogs and toads moving through soil, plants, and leaf litter
  • Water access shaped for amphibian safety and hydration
  • Insect-attracting UV lights that operate on biologically informed schedules
  • Automated lighting control managed by the system to support natural feeding and activity cycles

Feeding-related and habitat lighting schedules are not user-controlled and are designed to align with natural frog behavior.

Human Observation & Interaction

  • Low-impact exterior lighting that users can manually activate for short-term, in-person viewing
  • Integrated motion detection to capture activity without constant illumination
  • Speakers capable of playing biologically appropriate mating calls to help attract frogs during relevant seasons
  • Microphones designed to record frog calls for identification and acoustic monitoring

All interaction features are governed to minimize disturbance.

Integrated Cameras, Audio & App Connectivity

Smart Tech models include:

  • Integrated cameras capable of recording video and capturing still images
  • Audio recording to document frog calls and environmental soundscapes
  • App connectivity for live viewing, playback, and notifications
  • Night observation tools designed for responsible, low-impact use

The Froggy Forts app connects users to their habitat while keeping control logic within the system itself.

Data, Learning & Global Community

Smart Tech Froggy Forts are designed to contribute to a growing body of shared ecological knowledge.

Through the app, users can:

  • View and organize observations from their own habitat
  • Share selected content within a global Froggy Forts community
  • Participate in educational programs and citizen science initiatives

Species presence data, acoustic recordings, and visual observations are expected to support:

  • Species detection
  • Range extensions
  • Seasonal activity tracking
  • Broader conservation research

Participation is optional, and data sharing is designed to respect both wildlife and user privacy.

Designed for Ground-Level Habitat Use

The Smart Tech • Ground model is designed to sit directly within the landscape, where many frogs naturally rest, shelter, and overwinter.

While it supports ground-oriented species such as toads, it is also commonly used by tree frog species that spend 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.

Who This Model Is For

The Smart Tech • Ground model is ideal for people who want to actively observe, learn from, and contribute to conservation efforts - without interfering with natural behavior.

It’s well-suited for:

  • Families and educators
  • Conservation enthusiasts and citizen scientists
  • Researchers exploring distributed habitat data
  • Anyone curious about frog behavior and ecosystem health
  • No technical experience required

Observation is enabled.
Control remains with the system.

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, improve manufacturing efficiency, and support future habitat accessories and scientific capabilities.

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 moisture sources. Once positioned, the habitat begins operating automatically, with observation features accessible through the app.  (Download detailed Installation Instructions below.)

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:

  1. 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.

  2. Position the Frog Fortress:

    • Gently place the Froggy Forts Ground Version on the level ground. Ensure it sits flat and stable.

  3. 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!

  4. 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.

  5. 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

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:

  1. Prepare the Cleaning Area:
    • Gather all cleaning materials and prepare a space to temporarily house your frogs while cleaning.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. Reassemble and Refill:
    • Reassemble the Frog Fortress and fill the wading pools with fresh, dechlorinated water.
    • Place the cleaned sponge back into the habitat.
  9. 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.

View full details

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.

Observe Without Interfering

Smart Tech Froggy Forts are designed to make conservation visible while keeping control where it belongs - with the system itself.

Cameras, audio, and sensors allow people to observe frog activity, learn from natural behavior, and share discoveries without disturbing the habitat. Biologically sensitive functions are governed automatically, with guardrails in place to protect frogs from human interference.

Technology becomes a window, not a control panel.