Southern Toad

Range

Southeastern United States. Range extends north to Virginia, South to the Florida Keys, east into Louisiana, and west to the Atlantic Ocean.

Habitats

Terrestrial. Found near water in sandy soil habitats that include fields, coastal scrub lands, woodlands, and residential areas. Found in a wide variety of aquatic habitats during breeding season.

Identification

Average adult length is between 1.6 and 2.9 inches although some populations can get up to 4.4 inches long. Coloration is usually brown but can occur in dark grey, black, or dark red. Dorsal surface and sides of body are spotted with dark blotches that surround one, or multiple, warts. Faded, light colored line often found running down spine, however it may be absent in some individuals. Distinctive pronounced knobs project upwards from parotid glands, behind eyes.

Learn more with Schechter Natural History's Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians