NPWRC :: Checklist of Amphibian Species and Identification Guide

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Checklist of Amphibian Species and Identification Guide

Southern Toad, Bufo terrestris

The Southern Toad is a medium sized toad reaching lengths around 3 inches or more. This toad can easily be distinguished from other toads in the southeast by the shape of its cranial crests. These form knobs in the area between the eyes (see diagram), and when seen from the right direction they give the impression that the toad has horns. These knobs are not well developed, however, on young specimens. Their coloration varies from brick red to brown or light gray. Sometimes there is a light line down the middle of the back which usually becomes diffuse toward the back. Males have throats that are darker than the rest of the underside.

Range: Southern Toads are found from eastern Louisiana following the coastal states to extreme southeast Virginia.

Southern Toads breed from March to October in temporary pools and flooded meadows, and can be heard caling on warm, humid nights. Eggs hatch in 1-3 days and the tadpoles take 1-2 months to develop into toadlets

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URL: http://www.npwrc.usgs.gov/resource/herps/amphibid/species/bterrest.htm
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