American Toad
Description
2-3.5” (5-9 cm). Usually brown in color, may also be shades of gray, red, olive or tan. Warty, dry skin. Dark spots on back typically containing one or two warts per spot. Belly white or cream-colored with mottled black spots. May have light-colored line down back. Parotoid glands ( bean-shaped structure behind eyes) does not touch ridge (cranial crests) behind eye, or only touch by small spur.
Call Description
High-pitched trill lasting approximately 10-20 seconds.
Indiana Range
Statewide, with the exception of the lower Wabash Valley.
Diet
Land-dwelling (terrestrial) invertebrates, including insects and their larvae, spiders, earthworms and millipedes.
Habitat
Found in many different habitats, ranging from backyards, agricultural fields, grasslands and sparse woods.
Breeding Habitat
Quiet waters, such as temporary wetlands, ditches, swamps, lakes, and backwaters of rivers and streams.
Breeding Season
Late March through June
Eggs
Up to 2,000 eggs are laid in long strands, which hatch in about a week.
Tadpoles
Small, black tadpoles form schools in shallow water. Metamorphosis occurs in six to ten weeks.
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