Large, with elongate parotoid glands not touching prominent cranial crests or connected by spur. Brown to brick-red to olive, with various patterns in lighter colors. Spots brownish, warts brown to orange-red. Light stripe down middle of back may be present. Belly usually spotted. Male has dark throat. The American Toad (Bufo americanus) is a common species of toad found throughout the eastern United States and Canada. It is divided into three subspecies-the Eastern American Toad, the Dwarf American Toad, and the rare Hudson Bay Toad.
Ten Facts about American Toad
- The size can be 2-4 3/8" (5.1-11.1 cm).
- They belong to the family of Bufonidae, Toads.
- Voice a pleasant musical trill lasting up to 30 seconds.
- Common in a variety of habitats from mowed grassy yards to heavily forested mountains; wherever there are abundant insects and moisture.
- The eggs of the American Toad are laid in two strings and can hatch in 3-13 days.
- They may advance to adulthood in 30-40 days.
- Tadpoles also produce toxic chemicals in their skin that discourage some potential predators. Fish have been reported to die after consuming one tadpole.
- Breeding occurs between March to July.
- Snakes, turtles, foxes, fishes, raccoons, birds, cats, bats, owls like to eat them.
- Live maximum 7-10 years.
