Family: Pelobatidae, Spadefoot Toads view all from this family

Description 1 1/2-2" (3.8-5.1 cm). Stout toad with wedge-shaped spade on each hind foot and glandular hump between eyes. External eardrum apparent. Skin relatively smooth, but many minute tubercles present. Olive to gray-green, with light stripes along flanks. Belly white.

Voice A series of low-pitched throaty notes given rapidly.

Breeding April to July, usually following heavy rains. Utilizes springs and slow-moving water as well as temporary pools.

Habitat Forested areas and sagebrush flats. Digs burrow in loose soil or uses burrows of other animals.

Range From s. British Columbia south to e. California, east to Colorado and nw. New Mexico.

Discussion Primarily nocturnal. It is occasionally found abroad in daylight foraging for insects and can sometimes be brought to the surface by loud stamping near its burrow.