My Giant Bullfrog Needed a New Home - Samson's Story

It's so crazy to me that I've already had Samson for almost six years! Time really does fly. I love this frog, but recently there was an issue with his paludarium. At some point during the move the seal on his tank broke and it began leaking. I never determined precisely what happened, but I had no choice other than to completely redo his setup. As I explain in the video, I would've had to fix it at some point anyway. I just had to do it much sooner than anticipated.
Anyway, over the years I've had a lot of time to observe Samson and determine precisely what he wants from a home. I thought it would be cool to go through his entire journey thus far to give better context to all of that. This is how I built his new home and his journey thus far. Enjoy!
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[@SerpaDesign]

I felt that it was about time to showcase the man once again! I love this frog, I can't believe how long I've had him already, and I'm so excited to finally get him back into a proper setup. He seems to enjoy it a lot so far. Let me know what you think! Enjoy and have a great weekend SerpaSquad!

[@beastamer1990s]

He's so chunky

[@blabla000blabla1]

Well i got one myself and I can tell they need more Land. I think ur enclosure would be better for the american Bullfrog with this much water. African Bullfrogs arent big swimmers by the way, the only go in such water areas mostly for mating. btw ur Land area looks dryed out too not very moist. Besides the fact that he almost has no land space this could be a factor too why he prefers the water.

[@piteusx8440]

The care and thought you put into your animals are amazing. No wonder Gunther lived for 14 years.

[@the_animal_ark]

Froggie father

[@mellewedin8221]

Samson is my favorite of the channel. I have watched a few of his builds. His such a beautiful beasty Beef Cake of a frog!!! Definitely hitting his prime😍💯. I have some wicked beautiful enclosures nothing like yours by any means. BUT you give inspiration so much. My Pac-Man frogs are definitely set,lol. My little common green frog Franklin is set up very well too, thank you to you. When spring hits and warmer he can go out in the pond. Now I can turn his paludarium into something awesome.

[@MisterDutch93]

I love how the high canopy on the right side of the vivarium created a secluded spot with a lot of shadows. For some reason it makes the scape look more natural and it will probably provide a nice hiding spot for Samson. When looking at your past builds you can really see how you've been improving at your craft. The new scape looks a lot better than your old one!

[@zynifi]

i like it too! It’s one of his best scapes so far

[@JaxonNevarez-ij1yc]

I just liked you because of your icon

[@morganw.4711]

What an ABSOLUTE UNIT Samson is! He’s a gorgeous frog and he definitely deserves this fantastic set up!

[@MaryJo22]

The thought process behind each animal, each vivarium is a testament to your drive and passion. You never cease to impress me. Good job Tanner!

[@JustaKarenDiscoveredTheIntrnet]

and his genius ability create and execute a vision that suits animal needs and looks beautifu

[@wintergames12]

Your more popular then serpadesign on your comment

[@JaysonTripp-cq5be]

Insanely creative the man is a pro nails it every build

[@WildWyomingProductions]

Now that is a chonker frog. Samson is massive🐸 Really shows how good you take care of your animals

[@audrameyer9558]

Never feel stupid for feeling like a proud father and taking pride in your accomplishments with your beautiful pets. They could not ask for better homes or care. You should feel very proud 😊 This was very cool, thank you!

[@jmarshal]

Gorgeous. It’s so interesting to see how it’s been changed over the years. I love how it’s really possible to see a progression of skill over time. I think that’s really important for people to see. It just takes time, more practice, planning, and a culmination of skills. Sam is a big boy and is gonna be super happy!

[@stampinturtles]

So cool to see him grow over the years. What an amazing transformation!

[@evilgenius97]

The moment we've all been waiting for. What we love the most is what specific improvements were learned

[@pencilpauli9442]

Glad Samson's home has been fixed. Looks really well, too!

[@j.morrison1866]

Amazing! Seriously living his best life!

[@jaded_gerManic]

Fur babies, fin babies and flipper babies are all in the same category so I don't think it's silly to be proud of any of them! Big boy looks so happy in his new, expanded 'pond'. Congrats and continued success! 💚

[@alexcrowder1673]

Dont forget scale babies

[@CardinaliamYT]

Scale and Feather Babies, as well!

[@winwynwin]

I never thought I'd be able to perceive a frog showing emotion, but he absolutely looks happy in that new habitat.

[@Chinesetakeout382]

Always love seeing Samson, This has come at the perfect time for me since I’m currently working on making a paludarium for an African bullfrog in the future. They are basically the only one of those frogs that just sits around that I’m really interested it. But I also have to fix and reseal a cracked 75 gallon and save up for an adequate filter. The care and love you put into all your animals is truly inspiring. Even if I can’t truly replicate your quality, a lot of the basics has really improved the lives of my animals.

[@orewatowi]

I love Samson!!! I am so pleased to see such a beautiful space for him. I understand what you mean about feeling like a proud parent. It’s incredible to watch our pets grow and get comfortable in the space we make for them. Creating an environment where they can be comfortable enough to call home is such a good feeling. ☺️

[@lorineilly6103]

What a little doll froggie ❤ Love this channel.

[@malyndahsexotics1543]

Tanner… this looks so amazing😞❤️ you’re so talented. I can’t even begin to tell you how much of an inspiration you are to me!!!

[@Evil_Genius_888]

Samson is a big boy! The enclosure turned out fantastic.

[@MsLeenite]

Samson seems quite relaxed and happy in his new home. You did a great job! It was fun seeing the changes in the big dude (and his environments) over the years.

[@robinwilssens4960]

I love the grotto! The "rain" is great too!

[@lunaandstella825]

I love how the new setup is gorgeous but also serves his needs so much better. Truly love it. And I can’t believe I am watching a frog in a tank and truly enjoying that 😂

[@Congiary]

This is the best-looking home Samson has ever had! It really did keep getting better and better over the years. What a lucky (handsome!) little man you've got.

[@angiadcock8196]

He is clearly such a happy little dude vibing in his new home. You should feel like a proud papa, his growth and clear comfort is a testament to your love and care through the years. It is my dream to start building vivariums and keep reptiles and I hope I can do it with as much care and artistry as you. All your animals are obviously well cared for and your tanks are beautiful.

[@Mean_Swan]

Always a great start to the morning! Love how you do the centerpieces of each tank 👍

[@amyjudy33]

I love your solution of creating a plant canopy above and out of reach. It's lovely to look at, and solves a really common issue of larger terrestrial vivarium animals damaging live plants. I love this build so much, and feel really inspired. Thank you!

[@dennisfeldmann7399]

Sunday Morning Over Easy with Samson and a cup of coffee. No better way to start my day. ❤

[@Mossywall]

I love the new design! Clever use of the foam, and the plant choices👌. It’s good to hear your voice and to know everybody made it through that big storm!

[@moonbasket]

What a beautiful frog! How smart to put the plants in a canopy where he cant get to them, but can still enjoy their benefits. I hope this new version of the tank works out for a while to come!

[@themotions5967]

A lot of the plants he used will spread out or even trial and hang eventually growing into the water if he allows them to.

[@simplistic5930]

Samson just staring right through your soul and judging all your thoughts. He knows all.

[@mMeFlora]

i looooove when you introduce him as 'the man himself' and also the shot of him in his new setup where he looks so round!!!! good frog right there

[@jessicaspears3713]

You really are a proud father to ALL your critters!! They are so lucky to be yours! What a wonderful gift you have for creating their habitats! Thanks for brightening up our lives with your videos!!

[@purplethunda8863]

I always forget just how big Sam is. I'm always like, "Yeah, he's a pretty big frog." Then I see him and I'm like, "He is a BIG frog." I love it

[@PerryTribeMetalBaker]

"A proud father..." I feel the same way when observing my own two African Bullfrogs; Fubsy and Buffo :)

[@ambermartin3507]

It's 5am in California and up Watching a Frog get a new home 😆😆 but I've been waiting to see Samson, he doesn't get enough appearances on the channel (which I'm sure he's completely fine with) lol 😂

[@barrkorrd27]

Same I'm watching super early in tbe morning lol

[@bettedaviseyes8563]

Fabulous! ❤

[@sharonkaczorowski8690]

Another lovely build. Sam looks quite happy. Btw…it’s not stupid to live an animal as you love Sam!

[@Soilfood365]

Beyond the aesthetic, mopani is also a dominant tree in some of the valley regions where giant bullfrogs are common - so it's an appropriate little bit of decor from Samson's motherland.

[@Starhunter1975]

Love how he is just chilling at the end of the video. He looks happy in his new home.

[@jonnylumberjack6223]

I literally love everything you make. But the set ups you design for your animals are always my favourites! He's a spectacular beastie and he has a spectacular home. Love it! As always, big love from Scotland my friend.

[@heatheryarbrough5255]

He is a beautiful animal. The setup is gorgeous. Thanks for sharing

[@lizzyanthus1]

I love Sams new home. He looks so comfortable in that water area with the overhang/cave kind of looking area. Great job fixing all the problems the tank had. Looks amazing! Thanks for sharing Sams growing up as welll. He's an awesome little guy..well not so little. :-)

[@Gabe2theXtreme]

Sam is HUGE! Warms my heart to see the love you put into all your projects. I'm sure Sam loves you for it!

[@glassyGREEN_]

You did an awesome job with the scape. Finally Samson can be back in his home. He is just such a massive frog

[@McPilch]

Saying you feel like a proud father is not silly at all! My first tarantula - a sling, as my other three are too - had its first anniversary with me the other day, and I also felt like a proud father!! As for Samson's new home, it looks FANTASTIC!! I love how well-designed it is.. it looks "simple" now, but as it develops, it will look like a picturebook-perfect example of a natural home! Make sure you update us on this progress! 💚

[@jrbp33]

Another great build, and lovely to see all the considerations and improvements that can be done to prefect an enclosure. I also love the use of vertical space in the enclosure that allows for the plants to thrive...many times I see only providing "usable space" for an animal but as you said as the canopy grows it will add to the whole ecosystem of the setup.❤

[@kellyfields3061]

I love the water feature he has so much room. This is probably my favorite build for Samson. Well done Tanner!

[@More_3008]

I love your vids so much, they always make me happy when I'm feeling bad. Thank you

[@tattybojangles5420]

Samson is definitely a personal fave. it has been cool to see him grow and outgrow enclosures, he is lucky to have someone like you who doesnt mind building another (:

[@lawsonsanimals4780]

I love this channel it's so amazing and the quality of care is magnificent

[@erintraicene7422]

I have a 6 month old and boy do I enjoy him. His relaxed nature calms me. Looking forward to when I build his adult home. Hopefully I can do as good a job as you!

[@HeadlessWeirdo]

Samson will always be in our hearts ♥

[@katherinekim5906]

So satisfying to see the “perfected” build- so much thought and discernment behind each decision!! Sam is so lucky to have you as his owner 🥺

[@barborjr660]

I really love these kind of videos ❤️ thx for making them

[@lilitharam44]

Aww, I always love to see Sam. He's the cutest bullfrog ever! You have every right to be proud of him. We'd love to see more of him. His new apartment is sweet, he's probably glad to be out of the studio size and into a new 3 bdrm. I love it when they burrow, we used to have toads that would burrow in my Mom's patio plants. She always loved toads, so it made her happy to have them "tucked in." Keep up the great work! Love from Memphis!

[@woodfield9584]

I love the storytelling style. A few natural breaks in the pace of the dialogue would be good. Sampson looks great! I also love the video you did of him eating.

[@angelamurphy9472]

There’s nothing like seeing your animal-friends happy in a home you’ve provided. Thanks for sharing Sam!

[@Etienne_H]

How would you know. This is like the size of a bed room but in there forever

[@2tone753]

A bullfrog with this name deserves only the best of the best. Even the age you have reached leaves you speechless. I wish this boy continued good health and hope that he stays with you and us ;) for a very long time.

[@little76boo1]

Perfect! Love the drip function too, gives it that something extra!

[@jimwilk7844]

This is my favorite build of yours. It's got a ton of depth and variety throughout. Spots to hide out and relax. It looks incredible and has a good balance. If I was Sampson I'd be pumped about this.

[@severance7134]

He is so cute 🥰 the look on his face when he eats reminds me of myself after a whole tub of ice cream 🤣 Awesome set up as always !!! Love ya work!

[@jonathankool1997]

I dont usually comment, but i wanted to say that I really love this scape. Like way more than most (and i am wow-ed by your scaping!) It just not only felt beautiful and stunning to look at which is amazing. But felt naturally designed to provide an amazing ecosystem to your animal. It felt more personal and equally as naturally beautiful. I felt the care and love you have for Samson in ever step you took and thought about him throughout. Its great to see not only the great care and habitat for samson but it to be equally beautiful. Its exactly how i scape. Always for the animal but try to make it feel alive!

[@Debora_9x]

Sometimes it just makes you feel good to make improvements just for your animals' well-being, it's so satisfying knowing you're just making them happier.. you definitely feel like a proud parent, I know the feeling!

[@Stev63]

Just so you know... The African bullfrog (Pyxicephalus adspersus) is a species of frog in the family Pyxicephalidae. It is also known as the pixie frog due to its scientific name. It is found in Angola, Botswana, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and possibly the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It has been extirpated from Eswatini. It has long been confused with the edible bullfrog (P. edulis) and species boundaries between them, including exact range limits, are not fully understood. Additionally, P. angusticeps of coastal East Africa only was revalidated as a separate species in 2013.The natural habitat of the African bullfrog is moist to dry savanna, subtropical to tropical dry shrubland, intermittent freshwater lakes, intermittent freshwater marshes, arable land, pastureland, canals, and flooded ditches. It is among the largest anurans on the planet, sixth only to the goliath frog, the helmeted water toad, the Lake Junin frog, the Blyth's river frog, and the cane toad. The males weigh up to 1.4 kg (3.1 lb) and grow to 24.5 cm (9.6 in) in snout-to-vent length. Females are half the size of males, which is unusual, considering that most female amphibians are (generally) larger than males, to help the amplexus. Feeding and habits The African bullfrog is a voracious carnivore, eating insects, other invertebrates, small rodents, reptiles, small birds, fish, and other amphibians. It is also a cannibalistic species-the male African bullfrog is known for occasionally eating the tadpoles he guards. An African bullfrog kept at the Pretoria Zoo in South Africa once ate 17 juvenile Rinkhals Snakes (Hemachatus haemachatus). They emit a loud croaking and a bleating sound when stressed or handled. It is one of the three frog species regularly kept in captivity that have sharp teeth and willingly bite humans when provoked or handled; the other two are Pacman frogs and Budgett's frogs. Reproduction Breeding typically starts after about 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain over the course of two days. They breed in shallow, temporary water bodies, such as pools, pans, and ditches. Eggs are laid in the shallow edge of the pond, but fertilization takes place above water.The African bullfrog males call out during the rainy season. The call lasts about a second and can be described as a low-pitched whoop. Males have two breeding strategies, depending on their age. Young males congregate in a small area, perhaps only 1-2 m2 (11-22 sq ft) of shallow water. The larger males occupy the centre of these breeding arenas or leks, and attempt to chase off other males. Often, they fight, causing injury or even killing one another. The dominant male attempts to prevent other males from breeding. A female approaches the group of males by swimming along at the surface until she is within a few metres of the group. Then, the female dives to avoid the smaller males and surfaces in the defended area of a larger male in the middle of the group. This helps to ensure that she mates with the dominant male.The female lays about 3,000 to 4,000 eggs at a time. The tadpoles hatch, and after two days, start feeding on vegetation, small fish, invertebrates, and even each other. Defending males continue to watch over the tadpoles, which metamorphose within three weeks. During the tadpole's development, the father guards his young. Due to the male bullfrog's overprotective behaviour, he pounces and bites anything that he views as a threat. If the pool is in danger of drying out, the father uses his legs and head to dig a canal from the drying pond to a bigger pond. He continues to guard the tadpoles until they are old enough to fend for themselves, although he may also eat some of them. The African bullfrog is an exotic pet in many countries around the world. Animals sold are generally bred in captivity. Pet African bullfrogs may live for 35 years in captivity.

[@terryenby2304]

I love the new setup! It is simple enough to serve his needs but complex enough to look beautiful, and he really seems to enjoy those drips 😊

[@harleythegod8051]

Super cool. Amazing quality video as usual, we need more Samson videos

[@veronica5896]

Samson the man! Head truly a big boy now! His new dig looks amazing! Can't wait to see his he makes it his own!

[@Flonkie]

I just love the thumbnail so much, it is so happy and pure.

[@First._.Last.]

That is gorgeous. I am especially drawn to the cave effect. It reminds me of exploring creeks and streams when I was growing up. Pockets in the clay banks that rose on either side of the water were full of wonder for me. They still are!

[@OggVorbis]

Amazing. Inspirational. The plants and animals who find themselves under your care have literally won the lottery.

[@irisssmits]

Love the elevated canopy. Beautiful home for a beautiful frog. Thanks for sharing.

[@rebeca3907]

Samson looks so happy! Great review of the history and the growth of this design and keeping of your wonderful pet. Love the video, thanks for sharing!

[@thetroler2741]

Great Video. Love to see samson grow and develop. Finally we get to see him again. Wonderfull Animal

[@RusskiBlusski]

This really do feel and look like the definitive edition of the previous tanks. Really awesome!

[@Marauder99991]

Yeah, that's definitely the best Samson house yet. Great stuff, man!

[@lupa4262]

I love how much you care about your animals. It's also really cool to see the improvements with each version of the setup in this video. Samson's new home looks wonderful!

[@Winddancer_Lor]

So nice to see him in his new tank finally! It's really cool you adjusted the setup to his needs. I mean, if one has a pet for so long you can make out the personality and what he as individual requires or likes. Awesome work as always! I like to see Samson, don't ask me why. He's just cool (and I still like the video where you fed him and gave him a written voice - that was so funny!).

[@caspenbee]

I appreciate that your designs focus on what the animal will like, more than some human aesthetic. Of course they end up looking beautiful, but it's more about making the animal feel at home.

[@andriana5311]

I love Samson, and it seems that Samson loves you, in his own frog way

[@willieverusethis]

That's beautiful! I love the cave-like feel and the cascading plants are perfect. I don't even keep animals like this but I want the tank!

[@IJm3]

Sam is an absolute unit! New setup looks fantastic

[@Kaalokalawaia]

Samson is one lucky froggo. He looks so comfortable in his new home. I LOVE the drips down through the hardscape. It looks like the perfect place to be a frog.

[@johnnyrodriguez5938]

Thicc boi, I love him. You do not want to be on the tracks, when this bull train is coming thru. My lord, what an absolute unit. This is amazing. Im sure Samson is thrilled in his renovated home. The amount of care, and thought that goes into this is awesome. The love for the animals is admirable, and they deserve nothing less. Tanner inspires me to be a better person. My favorite channel by far.

[@Turok4527]

These tanks are so amazing! I can only imagine what other tanks you’ll be making and what animals you’ll make for.

[@Emakura]

This is definitely my most favorite video of yours! I love how you went into the history and explained everything! Beautifully done!!!! You should feel like a proud dad!

[@ProfessorLX]

Really really loved this video, all the details on the previous setup and telling us what you've learned then encorporating all of that into the new scape was very satisfying to watch! Thanks very much!

[@TheNavadoc]

I always learn so much in your presentations. An artist, biologist, tank builder and teacher. What great content!

[@sweetheartsmisery]

dude that’s the sickest tank design for him! it’s perfect, makes me jealous cuz Samson has such a nice crib.

[@floatygimpy]

Samson is adorable and I love his new set up. I especially love his platform where he can relax partially submerged.

[@NotNaudiz]

I LOVE the water dripping down from the canopy. Honestly this looks like a tank made for me to live in. Pretty jealous of Samson, man's living the high life.

[@CricketsMa]

Love the improvements you’ve made, and I believe Samson agrees! 😍

[@jerrydease1459]

Samwise will love his new Trickling Canopy 🙀🐸🌴🎉💦 Aces, Tanner!

[@lifesjourney65]

Considering 266,000 of us have watched this video, in less than a week, safe to say how much we all love tour work Tanner. Amazing setup for the big guy!

[@chloe8504]

I am in love with all of your designs, they make every aspect of the animals habitats seem like there actually cut from a peice of the wilds 🥰🥰 Truely amazing!!!

[@lydia67119]

Hi Tanner! I always love your videos, but this one, my dude, is awesome! It’s cool how you explain the way you think about every aspect of Samson’s husbandry but in a way specific for his antics. I bet the pothos dangling down will make him super happy in his new little jungle :) thanks as always for the video!

[@zztalk646]

He's a mighty handsome and healthy bullfrog Serpa, Sam looks really happy with his new home!

[@speaknoworforeverhol]

I’ve been watching your videos for years and you never cease to amaze and inspire me to do builds

[@WildflowersCreations]

Absolutely love seeing this setup rebuild and redesigned!

[@lr5612]

Wow, it looks magical 😍 Samson looks like he loves it too, especially his gorgeous plant cave. You are his dad, it's not stupid!!

[@chilloutsessionsv1]

I like how you use old content in the new vids - even tho I've seen it, it makes so much sense and it's nice to see the progress 😊

[@XDestroyer420]

Omg. That canopy section is going to look AMAZING when it fills in. 😍

[@TheSeptemberRose]

That new build looks gorgeous! It's hard to believe how much smaller Samson was when you first got him!

[@tjbren576]

HUGE improvement! I like his pudgy little hands.