Eastern American Toad
(Bufo a. americanus)
Photo Courtesy of Bethel Ademowore
The Eastern American Toad usually reaches lengths of 2 - 3.5 inches and are generally brown in color and spotted pattern. Each spot has 1 - 2 warts with larger warts on the lower leg. Their belly is lighter in color and is spotted. They are similar to the Fowler's Toad (Bufo fowleri). American Toads have an enlarged paratoid glands which almost couch their large cranial crests.
The paratoid glands emit a white fluid which is toxic. This fluid helps them escape predators. This fluid inflames the mouth and can cause nausea, irregular heart beats, and in extreme cases death. They can pose a danger to pets who catch these animals and people who handle these toads should immediately wash their hands.
Photo Courtesy of Krissy Sokolik
The American Toad has a musical trill voice that has often been mistaken for a cricket or other insect. The call can last as long as 30 seconds.
This primarily nocturnal toad can be found in all types of environments that contain enough insects for it to eat. They can often be heard at night during the breeding season from March to July. Eggs are laid in water in long strings attached to vegetation.