USGS Western Ecological Research Center

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A Field Guide to the Reptiles and Amphibians of Coastal Southern California


Photos by Chris Brown

Scientific name: Anaxyrus boreas

Common name: Western Toad

Size: 2.2-5.12 in (5.6-13.0 cm)

Distinguishing characters: A large toad species; white or cream dorsal stripe; dusky gray or greenish dorsally with skin glands concentrated within the dark blotches; parotoid glands are oval, widely separated, and larger than upper eyelids; mottled venter; horizontal pupils; lacks cranial crests.

Juveniles: Dorsal stripe weak or absent; large young have prominent dorsal and ventral spotting and yellow feet.

Dimorphism: Male has smoother skin; reduced dorsal blotching; nuptial pads (thickened skin) on forefeet during breeding season; throat pale as in female.

Similar species: Spea hammondii: Lacks dorsal stripe and has vertical pupils.

Additional notes: A common species occupying a wide variety of habitats; frequently encountered during wet season on roads or near water at other times. When handled adults often vocalize (sounds like a peeping chick) while struggling.

 

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