Family: Bufonidae, Toads view all from this family

Description Plump. Grayish/brown to olive. Green warts. Vocal sac covered by skin flap.

Dimensions 5.1-9.2cm. (2-3 5/8")

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 Trill. High-pitched.

Breeding April-September. After rainfall in temporary pools, ditches and waterholes.

Habitat Woodland, prairie grassland.

Range Texas. Also Oklahoma, New Mexico into Mexico.

Discussion Nocturnal. Burrows underground. Flattens against the ground when threatened.