A medium-sized toad native to western regions of North America, characterized by its distinctive warty skin and adaptability to arid and semi-arid environments.
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ADSENSE SLOT
Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Found in diverse ecosystems including desert scrublands, grasslands, mountain meadows, and riparian zones across western United States and parts of Mexico, ranging from 0 to 3,000 meters elevation
Ecological Role
Critical insectivore in ecosystem food webs, controlling invertebrate populations and serving as prey for larger predators like snakes and birds of prey
Morphology
SKIN COATRough, warty skin with variable coloration including gray, brown, and olive green with darker blotches
LIMBS WINGSStrong hind limbs adapted for jumping, webbed toes for occasional swimming
HEAD SENSORYLarge, prominent eyes with horizontal pupils, wide mouth with specialized sensory capabilities for detecting prey
BODY STRUCTUREStout body, typically 5.7-12.7 cm in length, with robust limbs and pronounced parotoid glands behind eyes