Couch's Spadefoot

Range

Ranges throughout much of the southwestern US, from southeastern California to east Texas. The most northern border of its range is in southeastern Colorado, and it can be found throughout most of northern Mexico.

Habitats

Primarily lives underground to protect itself from the dry climate in grassland prairies and mesquite savannahs. They emerge mostly to breed in temporary desert rain pools.

Identification

This plump, round toad is named for a hard black sickle-shaped protrusion on the underside of each hind foot, used for burrowing into the ground. They also have vertical pupils, unlike other toads, and very large bulging eyes. They have small bumps on their skin, which is light yellow with a dark marbled pattern. They grow up to 3.5 inches in length. Ventral side is pale and unmarked.

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