Family: Bufonidae, Toads view all from this family

Description 3-7" (7.7-17.9 cm). Largest native toad in the United States. Olive to dark brown, with a relatively smooth, shiny skin. Elongate parotoid glands touch prominent cranial crests. One or 2 white warts at corner of mouth. Other large warty glands on hind legs. Belly is cream-colored.

Warning Toads have enlarged glands (called the paratoid glands) on the side of the neck, one behind each eye. These glands secrete a viscous white poison that gets smeared in the mouth of any would-be predator, inflaming the mouth and throat and causing nausea, irregular heart beat, and, in extreme cases, death. Toads pose a danger to pets, which may pounce on and bite them. Humans should take care to wash their hands after handling a toad, and to avoid touching the mouth or eyes until having done so.

Voice A weak low-pitched toot, lasting less than a second.

Breeding May to July.

Habitat Desert. Prefers damp areas near permanent springs or man-made watering holes but may be found in arid grasslands and woodlands. From sea level to 5,300' (1,600 m).

Range Extreme se. California to extreme sw. New Mexico, south into Mexico.

Discussion Nocturnal. It sometimes appears before seasonal rains fill breeding pools. When the rains finally arrive, breeding commences. It eats insects, spiders, lizards, and other toads.